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hands on history

Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

April 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m sharing a list of ancient civilizations and their inventions and discoveries. Also, look at my page Ancient Civilizations for more ideas, free lapbooks and hands-on activities.

Studying ancient history is not about just studying dates which can be boring.

When we study how ancient people lived, what they invented and how we still use some of them today that makes history important.

Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

For example, we learn that pyramids, statutes, and paintings were made without modern tools.

In addition, when we read and learn about the ancient inventions and discoveries, then our imagination is stirred to try new ideas.

And understanding different cultures helps us to appreciate other people and their country.

BOOKS TO PAIR WITH A LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

Next, we prefer living books about ancient history when we can find them.

13 ANCIENT HISTORY LIVING BOOKS FOR MULTIPLE AGES

Add one or two of these books to your day for a unit study or add them to your home library for books to keep.

The Children's Homer

It recounts the perilous adventures of Odysseus on his journey back from the war in Troy, including his encounter with the horrible Cyclops, the duplicitous Sirens, and the evil Circe. One of Colum’s many successful children’s novels, these stories will be enjoyed as much today as they were when they first appeared. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and is wonderfully illustrated by Willy Pogany.

The Arabian Nights

Full of mischief, valor, ribaldry, and romance, The Arabian Nights has enthralled readers for centuries. These are the tales that saved the life of Scheherazade, whose husband, the king, executed each of his wives after a single night of marriage. Beginning an enchanting story each evening, Scheherazade always withheld the ending: A thousand and one nights later, her life was spared forever.

The Golden Goblet

Ranofer wants only one thing in the world: to be a master goldsmith like his beloved father was. But how can he when he is all but imprisoned by his evil half brother, Gebu? Ranofer knows the only way he can escape Gebu's abuse is by changing his destiny. But can a poor boy with no skills survive on the cutthroat streets of ancient Thebes? Then Ranofer finds a priceless golden goblet in Gebu's room and he knows his luck−and his destiny−are about to change.

City of the Golden House

A slave and a cripple, A saint and a Roman officer, An Emperor and a conspirator . . . A city on fire! The events surrounding the burning of Rome and the subsequent Christian persecution provide the backdrop for this story of faith and friendship. A young slave from Britain finds himself in Rome at a tumultuous time. Through his acquaintance with Christians he comes to understand and love the new religion. Out of his zeal for the love of the Christ, he performs a great spiritual work of mercy that sadly goes awry. In the end, God's providence and mercy shine through.

Boy of the Pyramids

The pictured wall of an Egyptian tomb supplied the inspiration for this unusual story, which takes place during the building of the Great Pyramid of Khufu more than 4,000 years ago. Kaffe and Sari, an Egyptian noble's son and a slave irl from the nomadic Sand People of the Sinai region, help solve a troublesome mystery and trap its culprit. All told against a colorfully detailed backdrop of ancient Egypt.

Gilgamesh the Hero

This is one of the oldest stories in the world, and it's about things that still matter to us today: friendship, fame, courage, happiness.Gilgamesh and Enkidu are friends -- best friends. Together they can work wonders, fight monsters, brave earthquakes, travel the world! But waiting in the dark is the one enemy they can never overcome.Retold by award-winning author Geraldine McCaughrean, and illustrated with great power by David Parkins, Gilgamesh the Hero is a story that will linger in the imagination long after the book has been put down.

The Arkadians

Lucian is on the run from a pair of murderous soothsayers. Joy-in-the-Dance knows magic and marvels, and is on a quest. Fronto is a poet-turned-donkey who wants to break the spell that turned him into an animal. The three of them join forces and set out through Arkadia—on an amazing trip that will change their lives. “Master storyteller Alexander keeps the action brisk, packs the text with a riveting collection of weird characters, fantastic settings, plot twists, derring-do, heroes, villains, magic, prophecy, humor, shipwrecks, fires—what more could readers ask for?”—Kirkus Reviews

Archimedes and the Door of Science

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.Greece, 200 B.C.

The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

A brother and sister's search for a new life and new home . . .5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia during a terrible drought, Jomar and Zefa's father must send his children away to the city of Ur because he can no longer feed them. At fourteen, Jomar is old enough to apprentice with Sidah, a master goldsmith for the temple of the moongod, but there is no place for Zefa in Sidah's household. Zefa, a talented but untrained musician, is forced to play her music and sing for alms on the streets of Ur. Marjorie Cowley vividly imagines the intrigues, and harsh struggle for survival in ancient Mesopotamia.

God King: A Story in the Days of King Hezekiah

A never-before published tale by the author of the best-selling Hittite Warrior carries the reader back to Ancient Egypt and biblical Jerusalem. It is 701 B.C—rule of the Kushite dynasty in ancient Egypt. Young Prince Taharka, a very minor royal son, succeeds unexpectedly to the throne of Kush and Egypt—a "divine" rulership. It's not long, however, before a treacherous plot pushes him into sudden exile and into the hands of Amos, an emissary of King Hezekiah seeking help against the Assyrians. Posing as a medical assistant, Taharka journeys with Amos to Judea where he encounters two kings in conflict. His true identity suddenly uncovered, he must choose with whom he will fight—the mighty Assyrian, Sennacherib, promising alliance, or Hezekiah, the Jew who trusts in Yahweh. A novel inspired by research on the historical King Taharka and his period. Includes an introduction, with home-education suggestions, by Daria Sockey.Egypt and Judea, 700 B.C.

Mara, Daughter of the Nile

Mara is a proud and beautiful slave girl who yearns for freedom in ancient Egypt, under the rule of Queen Hatshepsut. Mara is not like other slaves; she can read and write, as well as speak the language of Babylonian. So, to barter for her freedom, she finds herself playing the dangerous role of double spy for two arch enemies—each of whom supports a contender for the throne of Egypt.   Against her will, Mara finds herself falling in love with one of her masters, the noble Sheftu, and she starts to believe in his plans of restoring Thutmose III to the throne. But just when Mara is ready to offer Sheftu her help and her heart, her duplicity is discovered, and a battle ensues in which both Mara’s life and the fate of Egypt are at stake.

The Boy of the Painted Cave

Tao is an outcast. Unlike the great hunters of his clan, Tao does not want to kill the wild bears or woolly mammoths of the hunt. Instead he wants only to paint them. But only Chosen Ones can be cave painters. What's more, Volt, the clan leader, violently despises Tao. And when the other clan members discover Tao's secret talent, they cast him out into the wilderness alone. There, he befriends a wild wolf dog named Ram, and the mysterious Graybeard, who teaches him the true secret of the hunt.

D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths

Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today. No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come.  “For any child fortunate enough to have this generous book . . . the kings and heroes of ancient legend will remain forever matter-of-fact; the pictures interpret the text literally and are full of detail and witty observation.”—The Horn Book

Also, look at a list of ancient civilizations that will get you started.

Too, where possible, I listed some of their inventions.

LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS & THEIR INVENTIONS

Mesopotamia

  • The Wheel
  • Cuneiform Writing:

Egypt (Ancient)

  • Papyrus
  • Hieroglyphics

China (Ancient)

  • Papermaking
  • Silk Production

Greece (Ancient)

  • Geometry & Astronomy
  • Democracy

Rome (Ancient)

  • Aqueducts
  • Legal Systems:
Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

Of course, this is not all of the ancient civilizations and inventions. There are more.

Grab the printable below and look at more ancient civilizations and invention.

HOW TO GET THE FREE LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AND THEIR INVENTIONS & DISCOVERIES

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

March 4, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We are learning some fun facts about Marco Polo, the Mongols, and investigate the contents of the Mongols Middle Ages History Unboxed. Also, look at my page free Marco Polo Unit Study and Lapbook 1254 to 1324.

The Mongols were a nomadic people who lived in the vast steppes of Central Asia.

They were skilled horsemen and archers, and they were known for their fierce fighting ability.

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

In the 12th century, a young Mongol named Temujin united the Mongol tribes and became Genghis Khan, or “Universal Ruler.”

Genghis Khan was a brilliant military strategist. He led the Mongols on a campaign of conquest that stretched from the Pacific Ocean to the borders of Europe.

The Mongols were some of the most successful conquerors in history.

They defeated powerful empires, such as the Jin Dynasty of China and the Abbasid Caliphate of Baghdad.

The Mongols also established one of the largest empires in history, which stretched from Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia.

BOOKS ABOUT MARCO POLO FOR KIDS

Marco Polo, explorer, served Emperor Kublai Khan in China.

Then he returned to Venice to write his account of the experiences he had there.

And that gave Europeans some of their earliest information about China.

First, look at some of these books about Marco Polo and his adventures.

10 Marco Polo Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these fun books about Marco Polo to your home library or use them in your unit studies.

Marco Polo

The amazing story of a Venetian trader who becomes an aide to the great Kublai Khan comes to life in this retelling for students by Manuel Komroff. Follow along as Marco Polo travels through deserts littered with bones, encounters animals previously unknown to Europeans, and comes to serve in the court of one of the greatest kingdoms ever known.Included is a gorgeous new map tracing his journey, and 29 full page illustrations from an early edition written for adults.The text in this edition is a reprint of the original Messner Biography, a series that was created for students. "Well told and with engaging narratives, they unknowingly flow nicely from story to fact. You will find a plethora of information packed between these pages, not only about the title’s subject, but the subject's time and the world they lived in."

The Adventures of Marco Polo

Was Marco Polo the world's greatest explorer -- or the world's greatest liar? Newbery Medalist Russell Freedman turns his eagle eye on the enigmatic Marco Polo in his most exciting biography yet.

He claimed to have seen rocks burn, bandits command sandstorms, lions tamed with a look, and sorcerers charm sharks while divers gathered pearls on the ocean floor. Marco Polo shook Europe with descriptions of the world he'd seen on his epic journey to the court of Kublai Khan.

But was Marco Polo the world's most accomplished explorer? Had he really seen the "Roof of the World" in Central Asia, and the "City of Heaven" in far-off China? Or was he a charlatan who saw nothing more than the conjurings of his inventive mind? Join Russell Freedman as he tackles a centuries-old mystery.

The Story of Marco Polo

This is volume number 22 in the Signature Books series for young readers. This series, under the general editorship of Enid Lamonte Meadowcroft, provides easy to read, exciting stories based upon the lives of historical figures. A vivid story of the life and adventures of perhaps the most romantic traveler of all time, a man who returned from the East with tales so fantastic that no one believed him until he was vindicated by later travelers.

Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

A continuation of the Explorers series by award-winning author Sandra Markle, Animals Marco Polo Saw brings to life the amazing, exotic animals Marco Polo encountered during his explorations in Asia, how the animals sometimes affected the outcome of the journey, and even helped the explorer survive!

Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Examines the political forces and personal ambition that drove Marco Polo in his explorations.

The Travels of Marco Polo

Marco Polo was the most famous traveller of his time. His voyages began in 1271 with a visit to China, after which he served the Kubilai Khan on numerous diplomatic missions. On his return to the West, he was made a prisoner of war and met Rustichello of Pisa, with whom he collaborated on this book. The accounts of his travels provide a fascinating glimpse of the different societies he encountered: their religions, customs, ceremonies and way of life; on the spices and silks of the East; on precious gems, exotic vegetation and wild beasts. He tells the story of the holy shoemaker, the wicked caliph and the three kings, among a great many others, evoking a remote and long-vanished world with colour and immediacy. He found himself traversing the most exotic lands-from the dazzling Mongol empire to Tibet and Burma. This fascinating chronicle still serves as the most vivid depiction of the mysterious East in the Middle Ages.

He Went With Marco Polo

Cathay is a long way from his home in Venice, but when 14-year-old gondolier, Tonio Tumba receives the chance of a lifetime, he doesn’t say no. Leaving behind his only possession, a shabby green gondola, Tonio eagerly joins Marco Polo on his adventure.

As Tonio and the Polo family travel the dangerous silk road to modern-day China, they encounter many fascinating people and dangerous perils. When Tonio rides into Cathay on one of the Khan’s elephants, he says to his friend, Pietro: “Elephants are grand… but give me a horse any time – unless I could have a gondola. When we get back to Venice, I’ll take you out in mine.”

There are many wonderful sights, amazing inventions and great riches to discover, though Tonio looks forward to getting back home - but many years will pass before his chance to see the canals of Venice again. When so much has changed, will Tonio find anything worth returning for?

Louise Andrews Kent is a master storyteller, weaving historical accuracy and immersive adventure into one epic voyage of discovery.

This new edition features all the original illustrations and clean, readable text. It is a fantastic living book teaching about history and geography, recommended for ages 10 and up.

Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Excellent, historic story well told by Harold Lamb and beautifully illustrated by Elton Fax. Originally published in 1954, this paperback edition was released in 1982.

Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Relive Italian voyager Marco Polo's adventures in China in1275, including his legendary meeting with Kublai Khan, emperor of the powerful Mongol Empire. This exciting new book separates fact from myth using excerpts from Polo's actual journals and vivid illustrations and photographs to portray Polo himself and his impressions of the unique traditions and customs of the Mongols. A recipe from the period is also included. Topics include - what the Medieval period meant to Europe and exploration - the Silk Road - Marco Polo's service in Kublai Khan's court - life at sea and in the Mongol Empire - Marco Polo's influence on later explorers Teacher's guide available.

Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

This edition is presented complete and unabridged, with larger text for easier reading by younger readers, and all the original illustrations and decorations.“I have attempted to transform the somewhat dry and monotonous translation of this narrative into an entertaining story, that may engage the attention and the interest of my young readers; for which it certainly presents ample opportunities. If the task is properly done, no one can fail to follow Marco Polo from his Venetian home, across the entire continent of Asia to the court of Kublai Khan, and in his various adventures and journeys while in the far-off Orient, without eager curiosity and ever-deepening interest. The central figure of the story is heroic, for Marco Polo was in all things manly, brave, persevering, intelligent, and chivalrous; and the scenes and incidents in which he was the leading actor were in the highest degree thrilling and dramatic.”-From the Preface by the Author.

For our study on the Mongols and Marco Polo I purchased the Young Adult package for the Mongols which is intended for ages 16 and up.

But, before we get into what comes in the box let’s take a look at some fun facts about Marco Polo.

And of course I have some great hands-on activities and resources to accompany your study too.

FUN FACTS ABOUT MARCO POLO AND MONGOLS

  1. During his time in China, Polo served as a trusted official in Khan’s court. It was a position that gave him access to the inner workings of the Mongol Empire and Chinese society. His observations and detailed descriptions of the people, customs, and innovations he encountered were meticulously recorded in his book, “The Travels of Marco Polo”.
  2. He journeyed to the Far East during the reign of Kublai Khan, the Mongol ruler of China. His career as a diplomat and emissary for Kublai Khan spanned 17 years.
  3. Polo’s travels introduced Europeans to many Chinese inventions that would have a major impact on the Western world. They were inventions like paper money, gunpowder, and the compass.
  4. His travels helped to forge new trade routes between Europe and Asia, increasing the flow of goods, ideas, and knowledge. The Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting East and West, experienced a resurgence in activity because of Polo’s accounts.
  5. One of the Asian tribes the Tartars unified Asia into a new Kingdom, the Mongols.
  6. Temuchin is Genghis Khan (a word from the Tarter language meaning lord or prince).
  7. Genghis and his Mongol army are called “The Golden Horde”.
  8. The Golden Horde broke through the Great Wall of China in 1214.
  9. Genghis Khan first created national parks, the postal system, international law and the borders of modern nations. His Empire was the safest and most tolerant of lands.
Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

Also, look at some hands-on activities.

MARCO POLO AND THE MONGOLS HANDS ON ACTIVITIES

Investigate the importance of wool and learn wool felting, taste a popular Mongol drink, and play games with a Mongolian Shagai bone with this box from History Unboxed.

Here is a Marco Polo Unit Study – Terracotta Warriors and Free Resources full of more fantastic ideas.

Make Homemade Mongolian Cookies and incorporate home economics and life skills into your curriculum.

For a deeper look at Marco Polo and the Mongols read both Who Was Marco Polo or Genghis Khan for read aloud or independent reading time.

Follow his travels with the Marco Polo Unit Study – Salt Dough Map + Free Printable Map Flags and create a relief map that showcases his path.

Listen to the podcast The Adventures of Marco Polo – Family Time History Podcast – Episode 1 together as a family while you are on the road or sitting around the table.

Finally, look at some hands-on activities.

History Unboxed carries boxes of wonderful activities and sometimes edible treats spanning Ancient History, Us History, and the Middle Ages.

You can purchase History Unboxed one box at a time or as a bundle of 12 and choose youth for elementary or young adult for middle and high school.

MONGOLS UNBOXED (MIDDLE AGES)

Inside our Mongols box was a book full of information and illustrations, a reading list, as well as instructions for enrichment activities like recipes, wool felting, and silk spinning.

It also included the items needed for these activities individually packaged making it easy to assign and keep track of supplies.

Here is what is inside…

Shagai Games: Decorate and play traditional games with Mongolian Shagai bones, learning about the recreational activities that have been part of Mongolian culture for centuries.

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

Felting and Wool: Learn about the importance of wool in Mongolian life.

We tried our hand at wool felting.

We did it without a needle as it was originally done with hot water and soap. Felting was essential to the nomadic lifestyle of the mongols.

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

Traditional Drinks: Taste a drink inspired by a traditional Mongolian recipe, offering a flavorful glimpse into the Mongolian culinary heritage. Our box included a Wild Orange tea to try.

Silk Spinning: Spin silk from a silkworm cocoon and uncover how silk played a key role in Genghis Khan’s army, protecting soldiers and enhancing trade routes.

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

The Life of Genghis Khan: Dive into the fascinating story of Genghis Khan, a figure revered by some and reviled by others, whose leadership and legacy still shape perceptions of the Mongols today.

Lessons are laid out for you in the book.

Fun Facts About Marco Polo | The Fascinating World of the Mongols

This method of learning is a lot more fun than reading out of a textbook for most learning types and who doesn’t love to get a box of surprises in the mail?

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschool, Marco Polo

Fun Ancient Greece Activities To Learn From The Great Minds

February 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have some ancient Greece activities to learn from the great minds of the past. Also, look at my page Fun Ancient Greece Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook and look at my second free Ancient Greece Lapbook for more ideas.

For example, we’re learning about the Greek philosophers Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Pythagoras, and Epicurus.

Besides there is a word for those all questions your children ask – the Socratic method.

But tapping into the minds of the past, help kids to learn how to ask questions and to learn to think critically.

Fun Ancient Greece Activities To Learn From The Great Minds

Many of the ideas we learned laid the foundation for ideas that continue to influence us.

Too, questions help children to develop reasoning skills, and you decide when to ask morality questions to weight against what the Greek philosophers felt.

And when children ponder meaningful questions instead getting the answers they develop curiosity and an open-mind.

They can also develop empathy and it’s an opportunity for you to model how you want your children to handle viewpoints different from their own.

ANCIENT GREECE BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these books about Ancient Greece.

8 Living History Books about Ancient Greece

You'll love this roundup of living history books about Ancient Greece.

D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths

In print for over fifty years, D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths has introduced generations to Greek mythology—and continues to enthrall young readers. Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today. No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come. “For any child fortunate enough to have this generous book . . . the kings and heroes of ancient legend will remain forever matter-of-fact; the pictures interpret the text literally and are full of detail and witty observation.”—The Horn Book

Ancient Greece for Kids Through the Lives of its Philosophers, Lawmakers, and Heroes (History for Kids - Traditional, Story-Based Format)

The suggested reader age for this book is 8 to 14 years old. To write this book, I went back to Herodotus, Plutarch, Diogenes Laertius, and other ancient sources of biographical anecdotes, and extracted from them the stories that will be most memorable to a modern kid. I retold them without adding any fictional color. I have omitted some things, however. Anything gruesome or seriously cruel is not included. Anything off-color, or outside traditional-family-friendly morality is not included. I have included only accounts of the most major battles, and without much detail. Battles are important, but as a kid - maybe as a girl - I was falling asleep over the ancient battles. Politics: Again, I have included only major turns of events.

I wove the information about the social order and geography of Ancient Greece into the stories of the era's historical figures. So, no worries, the kid will learn about the Agora and Acropolis of Athens, the city-states of Corinth and Sparta, daily life in an Ancient Greek household, the major Greek temples, and the three orders of Ancient Greek architecture. This book is richly illustrated. I don't agree that if you are 13 or 16 you should be content with pages and pages of text and no pictures. Illustrations help both kids and grownups to visualize - and therefore to remember - events and descriptions. I have illustrated the book mostly with paintings portraying historical figures or everyday life in classical Greece. Whenever I could, I chose late 19th century and early 20th century art over the older neoclassical paintings for a more accurate representation of the Ancient Greek costume and environment.

The Iliad for Boys and Girls

The Iliad is typically described as one of the greatest war stories of all time. Set during the Trojan War, this timeless poem vividly conveys the horror and heroism of men and gods wrestling with towering emotions and battling amid devastation and destruction. Homer's tale is a compassionate view of human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death in the face of an often uncaring divinity.

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

The Great Philosophers: Socrates, Plato & Aristotle - Ancient Greece - 5th Grade Biography - Children's Biographies

You have probably heard about Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. When it comes to ancient minds who created foundations in philosophy, science, and math, these three names would automatically come up. But what exactly did they do to warrant immense respect and admiration? Well, your fifth grader will soon find out from this biography book.

Marathon Looks on the Sea

Illustrated by Erwin Schachner. The story of the Battle of Marathon and how it determined the future of Athens.

Life in Ancient Athens (Picture the Past)

What was it like to live in Ancient Athens? All the people who lived in ancient Greece spoke the same language and worshipped the same gods and goddesses. But they all lived in different city states a city and the land around it that it controlled. These city states were all run differently, and there were often fights between them. Despite their differences, there were things that united the city states. Find out more in this exciting title.

Growing Up In Ancient Greece (Growing Up In series)

Describes daily life in ancient Greece, discussing life in the city, life in the country, school, ceremonies and festivals, food, and other aspects

Next, look at some hands-on Ancient Greece activities.

ANCIENT GREECE ACTIVITIES

  • Hands-On Ancient Greece Study: Politics and Pottery
  • 9 EASY and Fun Hands-on Ancient Greece Kids Activities
  • Ancient Greece (Hands-on Science)
  • Free Ancient Greece Go Fish Game – Ancient Greece Unit Study
  • Ancient Greece Unit Study Play Stomachion Like Archimedes {Explore Geometry}
  • Hands-on Activity Ancient Greece Chariot
  • Ancient Greece Hands-on Activity Refraction
  • Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts – Great Big List of Ancient Greece Freebies
  • 13 Living History Books about Ancient Greece
  • Cursive and Free Greece Copywork Poetry
  • Geronimo Stilton The Race Against Time Build a Fun Greek Water Clock
  • Easy Hands-on Fun Ancient Greek Games for Kids DIY Knucklebones
  • How to Make a Trojan Horse Craft | Fascinating Trojan Horse History
  • Geronimo Stilton Race Against Time And Make Pottery Like Ancient Greeks
  • Free Greek Mythology Unit Study and Greece Lapbook & Fun Hands on LEGO Zeus
  • How to Make a Cool Greek Mythology Triorama With Kids

Also, look at some facts about these 5 ancient Greek philosophers.

ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHER FACTS

Ancient Greece thinkers were called philosophers. We still ponder some of the same questions they ask in the past.

Look at a few of these famous Greek philosophers.

SOCRATES

  • Socrates (469–399 BC) was one of the most famous philosophers of all time.
  • He didn’t write anything down. His student Plato kept a record.
  • And he loved to walk around asking questions to people in the street in Athens.
  • His manner of questioning all is still referred to as the Socrates Method.

Also, look at these facts about Plato.

PLATO

  • After Socrates passed away, Plato kept his ideas alive.
  • His school the Academy was one of the first schools in western history.
  • He spent a lot of time thinking of fairness or justice.
  • And he believed math helped people thinking logically.
Fun Ancient Greece Activities To Learn From The Great Minds

Next, learn about Aristotle.

ARISTOTLE

  • He taught Alexander the Great.
  • And he is considered the Father of Logic.
  • Aristotle thought that reasoning (the ability to think clearly) was one of the most important things for people to learn.
  • He made contributions to science like studying about plants, animals, and stars.

Then, learn about Pythagoras.

PYTHAGORAS

  • He was a math genius.
  • Too, he is known for his amazing discovery about right triangles.
  • Pythagoras thought that numbers were the key to understanding everything in the world.
  • He believed that everything in the world was connected by numbers.

Finally, look at some information about Epicurus.

EPICURUS

  • He was a philosopher that liked happiness.
  • He believed in finding pleasure in a healthy way.
  • According to Epicurus, life is about enjoying the present.
  • Epicurus believed in living in harmony with others.

Also, look at what you get in this download and how to use it.

HOW TO USE THE ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHERS PRINTABLE.

There is one page on each of the 5 philosophers mentioned above.

Each page has an activity or two along with facts about the philosopher.

Use the pages to introduce philosophers in your unit study.

In addition, you can add these pages to your notebook or even to the two free Ancient Greece lapbooks I have.

Look here at my post at my post How to Turn Boring Worksheets into Fun Minibooks – From Boring to Interactive to fold a page into a minibook for your file folder or notebook.

Finally, look at how to get this free printable.

HOW TO GET THE FREE ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHERS PRINTABLE

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie now

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: ancient civilizations, Ancient Greece, greek, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history

10 Interesting Facts About Mesopotamia And Unit Study Outline

February 25, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 10 interesting facts about Mesopotamia and a fun unit study outline if you want to dive deeper into learning about them. Also, look at my page Ancient Civilizations for more ideas.

Studying about Ancient Mesopotamia doesn’t have to be hard.

True, we call it the cradle of civilization.

Why? They created writing, formed governments and built huge cities.

10 Interesting Facts About Mesopotamia And Unit Study Outline

And I’m sharing more than just 10 interesting facts about Mesopotamia.

For example, studying about some of the fascinating cities like Ur, Babylon and Sumer and how they lived should be presented in hands-on lessons.

Besides, try cuneiform writing while you learn that it was one of the earliest forms of writing.

Using a wedge-shaped tool that was pressed into clay they recorded important dates.

And the story The Epic of Gilgamesh is a legend still told today and his quest to find the secret to immortality.

BOOKS ABOUT ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA FOR KIDS

First, look at these books about Ancient Mesopotamia.

6 Books to Read About Ancient Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia is a region situated within the Tigris–Euphrates River system, in the northern part of the Fertile Crescent. Today, Mesopotamia occupies modern Iraq.  In the broader sense, the historical region included present-day Iraq and parts of present-day Iran, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey.

Gilgamesh the King (The Gilgamesh Trilogy)

Gilgamesh, half-god and half-man, in his loneliness and isolation becomes a cruel tyrant over the citizens of Uruk. To impress them forever he orders a great wall to be built, driving his people to exhaustion and despair so that they cry to the Sun God for help.

The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia during a terrible drought, Jomar and Zefa's father must send his children away to the city of Ur because he can no longer feed them. At fourteen, Jomar is old enough to apprentice with Sidah, a master goldsmith for the temple of the moongod, but there is no place for Zefa in Sidah's household. Zefa, a talented but untrained musician, is forced to play her music and sing for alms on the streets of Ur.

Science in Ancient Mesopotamia

Describes the enormous accomplishments of the Sumerians and Babylonians of ancient Mesopotamia in every scientific area, a heritage which affects our own everyday lives

Ancient Mesopotamia: The Sumerians, Babylonians, And Assyrians

Explores Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian cultures, discussing social structure, lifestyles, and the military in these societies.

Lugalbanda: The Boy Who Got Caught Up in a War: An Epic Tale From Ancient Iraq

Lugalbanda woke with a jolt. He opened his eyes and what did he see but the terrible Anzu bird beating its wings in its nest high above. . . . Did he quake? Did he quail? No. Lugalbanda the Brave sat and stared, and into his head came a brilliant idea.

Mesopotamia (A True Book)

Presents the history of ancient Mesopotamia, describing the different groups of people who lived there, and their government, cities, everyday life, religion, and writing.

Next, look at some hands-on activities to go with the facts learned about Mesopotamia.

ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA ACTIVITIES

  • How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe
  • Ancient Mesopotamian Ziggurat Activity
  • Hands-on Ancient Mesopotamia: Easy STEM Irrigation Activity
  • Ancient Mesopotamian Cuneiform Activity
  • Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): and Cook Sebetu Rolls
  • Epic of Gilgamesh for Kids
  • Hands-on Geography Mesopotamia: Fun Salt Dough Map
10 Interesting Facts About Mesopotamia And Unit Study Outline

Also, look at these interesting facts about Mesopotamia.

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MESOPOTAMIA

  1. Mesopotamians were excellent farmers, growing barley, wheat, and dates.
  2. The wheel was first used in Mesopotamia for making pottery.
  3. Ziggurats were huge pyramid-like structures built as temples to the gods.
  4. One of the earliest sets of written laws, called the Code of Hammurabi, came from Mesopotamia.
  5. Mesopotamia means “the land between two rivers.” It was located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
  6. Instead of one big kingdom, Mesopotamia had many small city-states.
  7. The Hanging Gardens is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  8. Mesopotamians created a number system based on the number 60.
  9. Some more cool inventions by the Mesopotamians were the plow and sailboat.
  10. Rivers were important. For example, the Tigris and Euphrates rivers provided water for farming and helped with travel and trade.

Finally, look at this Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline.

ABOUT THE ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA UNIT STUDY OUTLINE

My Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline is a handy tool to help you teach or for child led learning.

There are many advantages to a unit study outline instead of a fully fleshed out study.

For example, look at these ways an outline guides your study.

  • Outlines give you a clear structure.
  • They help break down big tasks into manageable steps.
  • Extensive lessons plans can make some kids lose focus.
  • And outline keeps the main topics to be learned on topic.
  • In addition, you can go down rabbit trails IF you want to. However, for some kids it can be overwhelming. You have the option to go deep or stay on topic with an outline.
  • Looking at the outline at a glance is a super roadmap. Again, you can go straight to your destination or facts or stay longer on an objective.
  • By listing an objective it guides you as the teacher to add your own slant.

For example, look at the topics covered in this outline.

  1. Introduction
  2. Geography and Environment
  3. Ancient Mesopotamian Civilizations
  4. Agriculture and Irrigation
  5. Writing and Communication
  6. Religion and Beliefs
  7. Science and Technology
  8. Trade and Commerce
  9. Arts and Crafts
  10. Exploration and Legacy
  11. Culminating Activity

HOW TO USE THE OUTLINE

Each topic has two or three topics or objectives for the subject. You decide which ones to use.

And if you stay on 1 topic per week and cover all 9 topics it would equal a 9 week unit study.

Additionally, only use the objectives on the topic your child is interested in and move on to other unit studies. This would make a shorter unit study.

For example, cover the introduction and perhaps the Persian culture for younger children.

Then save the other topics for when your children are older.

You will like this unit study outline if:

  • you want the freedom to flesh out topics and not be tied to day to day lesson plans
  • you prefer to flesh out day to day lesson plans or do not prefer them at all and
  • you want a guide for topics to study so you have a sweeping overview of the unit.

You will not like this unit study outline if:

  • you want to day to day lesson plans guiding each day and worksheets and
  • you don’t want to teach all your kids together.

HOW TO GET THE MESOPOTAMIA UNIT STUDY OUTLINE

You can download the printable Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline now!

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Downloads are INSTANT. When you pay, you will receive an email with a download link INSTANTLY. Depending on your internet connection, the email could be just 30 seconds or so, or a bit longer. The point is it will be soon, not a week later,etc.

10 Interesting Facts About Mesopotamia And Unit Study Outline
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Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: ancient civilizations, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, history, homeschool, mesopotamia, unit study outline

Why I Love History Related Games And Review Of Risk Take Over The World Game

February 8, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

History related games offer a wonderful blend of education, entertainment, and mental stimulation for both your learner and you.  Also, look at my page Kids History Games for more fun history game ideas.

They allow you to explore different time periods, learn about history in an interactive way, and challenge others and yourself strategically.

These games can deepen your appreciation for history and provide you with countless hours of enjoyment.

Why I Love History Related Games And Review Of Risk Take Over The World Game

Board games are available in a wide variety of historical periods like WWII, the Middle Ages, ancient peoples and places, and of course the American Revolution.

A really good historical game still manages to maintain some historical accuracy.

I am excited to share our experience playing Risk Europe from a mom and son (who loves anything Medieval) point of view.

I am also going to share 10 history related games that you might want to add to your gaming shelf to teach history and so much more.

From trivia games to tabletop role playing and strategy games there is something for every type of player and historian.

If you want to know what the benefits are of playing these types of games just keep on reading because I have a list of those for you too.

WHY I LOVE HISTORY RELATED GAMES

  • Immersive Storytelling: History games can transport you to different eras, allowing you to experience historical events from a unique perspective. They immerse us in rich narratives, where you can witness pivotal moments and interact with historical figures.
  • Educational Value: History games teach us about various cultures, civilizations, and periods. They provide an interactive way to learn about past events, political systems, and social structures. We gain a deeper understanding of history by engaging with it in a dynamic and engaging way.
  • Strategic Challenges: Many history games incorporate strategic elements that require making decisions that impact the course of events. They challenge critical thinking skills and force us to consider the consequences of our actions, just as famous historical leaders had to.
  • Sense of Adventure: History games often involve exploration and discovery. You get the opportunity to uncover hidden artifacts, solve puzzles, and unravel mysteries related to historical settings. This sense of adventure keeps you engaged and motivated to progress through the game.
  • Appreciation for History: Playing historical games has fostered a greater appreciation for the past. It teaches empathy for historical figures and gain insight into the challenges they faced. This appreciation enhances my understanding of the present and helps me make connections between the past and the present.
Why I Love History Related Games And Review Of Risk Take Over The World Game

Next, look at some history related games.

HISTORY RELATED GAMES FOR KIDS

10 History Related Games to Try

Playing historical games has fostered a greater appreciation for the past. It teaches empathy for historical figures and gain insight into the challenges they faced. This appreciation enhances my understanding of the present and helps me make connections between the past and the present.

Jumbo, Stratego - Original

  • Stratego is the strategic game where you challenge your opponents in the heat of battle
  • Your task is to capture your opponent’s flag while defending your own
  • Lead your men into battle, every move is crucial

Trekking Through History

  • A History Board Game For The Whole Family - Meet legendary people and join remarkable events as you try to see all you can before the clock runs out during family game night.
  • Journey to 108 Remarkable Historic Events - Each oversized card features original art, showcasing a real historical person or event on one side and its story on the other.
  • Created By Historians & Experts - This family board game was created alongside a team of experts to help choose the events and write the cards. Even history buffs will have lots of amazing things to discover.

History Channel Trivia Board Game Deluxe Edition

  • OFFICIALLY LICENSED - Created in partnership with The HISTORY Channel, the world's premier destination for historical storytelling since 1995
  • OVER 2,410 QUESTIONS - Spanning the entirety of human knowledge, from the big bang to today!
  • SIX DIVERSE CATEGORIES - Arts & Culture, Sports & Recreation, Science & Technology, Geography & Landmarks, People & Events PLUS the ALL-NEW 80s & 90s Category - So many different topics, there's something for everyone. Whether basking in the glow of victory or shouting "'I should have known that!", this game is a blast!

Ancient Knowledge Heritage - Strategy Card Game Expansion, Tableau Building Board Game

  • STRATEGIZE IN NEW WAYS: Ancient Knowledge is a strategy game in which you must build a game engine that will evolve over time. This expansion adds more to that strategy!

CHRONOLOGY - The Game Where You Make History

  • Think you know which came first – the invention of mayonnaise or decaffeinated coffee? Lincoln’s Gettysburg address or John Deere’s first plow? Test your knowledge with Chronology by Buffalo Games – the game of all time!
  • Build your own timeline of cards. Someone will read you a historical event from a card. You decide where that event falls in your timeline. If you are right, keep the card and your timeline grows. The first player to build a timeline of 10 cards wins!

WWII Historical Board Game of Epic Battles!

  • HISTORICAL EPIC: Step into the shoes of WWII commanders and engage in thrilling battles with Memoir '44, a unique historical board game featuring plastic Army men and authentic scenarios.
  • STRATEGIC CHALLENGE: Command infantry, paratroopers, tanks, artillery, commandos, and resistance fighters with strategic card play, dice rolling, and flexible battle plans for victory.

Sid Meier's Civilization: A New Dawn Terra Incognita Board Game Expansion -

  • EXPLORE THE UNKNOWN: Venture beyond the borders of your civilization with Terra Incognita, the captivating expansion for Sid Meier's Civilization: A New Dawn.
  • EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS: Dynamically construct the game board as you play, uncovering new environments and unlocking powers through sprawling districts.

History of the World

  • Marshall your forces and defeat your adversaries.
  • At the end of the game, only the player with the most points will have their immortal name etched into the annals of history!
  • Whoever can make the best use of their civilization’s unique attributes will position themselves to rule through the ages.

Risk Europe

  • MEDIEVAL RISK: Everyone knows and loves the game of Risk. Now, Risk Europe introduces an entirely new play experience with all new armies, weapons, territories, castles, kings, gold and more!
  • EXPAND, CONQUER, CONTROL: Your goal is to dominate Europe with the most territories AND you'll need to have scored 7 crowns in order to seal your victory

CATAN Board Game - Embark on a Journey of Discovery and Trade! Civilization

  • EXPLORE CATAN: Set sail to the uncharted island of Catan and compete with other settlers to establish supremacy.

Also, look at these other kids history games.

HISTORY GAMES FOR KIDS

  • American History Game Fun U.S. President Go Fish Unit Study
  • 18 American History Board Games Which Brings History to Life
  • The Benefits Of Using Games That Teach Geography | Review Of Scrambled States
  • French Revolution + Free Storming the Bastille Game
  • Ancient Greece Go Fish Game 
  • 10 Ancient History Card Games for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning
  • 15 World History Board Games Guaranteed to Make Learning Fun
  • How To Upcycle A Monopoly Game History to A Medieval Theme & Free Printables
  • 7 Fun Ways to Play Go Fish Egyptian Games for Kids

Finally, look at a review of Risk Europe.

REVIEW OF RISK EUROPE

Risk Europe challenges players to step into the role of a medieval king and rule feudal Europe by building castles, taxing subjects, expanding territories, and engaging in battle.

First let’s look at the technical information of the game…

  • Game Type – Conflict Game
  • Mechanics – Area Control, Dice Rolling Combat, Action Selection
  • Play Time: 2 – 3.5 hours
  • Number of Players:2-4
  • Difficulty – Moderate

The game is fantastic quality, including a very large game board ( 30” x 30”), 15 crowns, 4 armies with 35 Footmen, 12 Archers, 12 Cavalry, and 4 Siege Weapons each, 8 castles, 12 red dice, 32 King’s Orders cards (4 decks), 8 City Bonus tiles, 21 gold pieces, 40 silver pieces, 4 War Banners, First Player Marker, 4 reminder cards, 8 Crown cards, card box, and a game guide.

Why I Love History Related Games And Review Of Risk Take Over The World Game

Now onto our personal pros and cons of Risk Europe from each of our points of view.

Son- I like how easy it is to set up and learn how to play.

The board looks really cool and there are a lot of neat parts, and it doesn’t look cheap at all.

But it would probably be more fun with 3 or 4 players. I definitely want to play again and try other versions of Risk.

Why I Love History Related Games And Review Of Risk Take Over The World Game

I enjoyed that it was set in my favorite time period of history, I haven’t played the original so I can’t compare it to any other version.

Mom- I like the fast pace of the game, quick turns for each player but overall the game is pretty long, it takes longer than monopoly.

 I enjoyed trying to work through strategies to stay ahead. I agree that it would be more fun with a larger group but learning to play is probably best with just a couple people.

All in all we both agreed if you are looking for fun family or co-op game with a historical theme Risk Europe is a great option.

For the size, quality, and number of parts for the game it is also a great price point.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: games, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, review

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