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Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

January 25, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is the oldest known sculpture in Egypt. Also, grab the Egypt – Famous Pharaohs and Queens Lapbook on my Ancient Civilizations page.

It stands in front of the pyramids on the west bank of the Nile in Giza, Egypt.

And it was created in a quarry to build the pyramids and other structures nearby.

By now you probably know what a fantastic resource LEGO is in your homeschool.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

They can be used for math manipulatives to building iconic treasures like the Great Sphinx of Giza.

We have amassed an astounding number of LEGOs over the years.

Still, I have a tutorial to show you how to build a small replica of the sphinx using basic LEGO pieces that you might find in a basic box except for the face.

But I am also giving you a simpler alternative for that as well.

Ancient Egypt Books for Kids

Next, add some of these books to your learning day.

I lean toward living books to bring a topic to life like history.

Then I add reference books.

17 Ancient Egypt Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these books to your home library and use them for a day of learning or for unit studies.

The Egypt Game

The first time Melanie Ross meets April Hall, she’s not sure they have anything in common. But she soon discovers that they both love anything to do with ancient Egypt. When they stumble upon a deserted storage yard, Melanie and April decide it’s the perfect spot for the Egypt Game. Before long there are six Egyptians, and they all meet to wear costumes, hold ceremonies, and work on their secret code. Everyone thinks it’s just a game until strange things start happening. Has the Egypt Game gone too far?

Tales of Ancient Egypt (Puffin Classics)

These stories include the great myths - of Amen-Ra, who created all the creatures in the world; of Isis, seaching the waters for her dead husband Osiris; of the Bennu Bird and the Book of Thoth. But there are also tales told for pleasure about magic, treasure and adventure - even the first ever Cinderella story.

The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt (Landmark Books)

For more than 3,000 years, Egypt was a great civilization that thrived along the banks of the Nile River. But when its cities crumbled to dust, Egypt’s culture and the secrets of its hieroglyphic writings were also lost. The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt explains how archaeologists have pieced together their discoveries to slowly reveal the history of Egypt’s people, its pharaohs, and its golden days.

The Buildings of Ancient Egypt

Uses archeological evidence to describe the construction, decoration, and furnishings of ancient Egyptian tombs, pyramids, and homes

Science in Ancient Egypt (Science of the Past)

Discusses the achievements of the ancient Egyptians in science, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, agriculture, and technology.

Great Ancient Egypt Projects: You Can Build Yourself

From reed boats, papyrus, and amulets, to pyramids, pharaohs, and mummies, Great Ancient Egypt Projects You Can Build Yourself explores the fascinating lives of ancient Egyptians through more than25 hands-on building projects and activities. Great Ancient Egypt Projects You Can Build Yourself gives readers today a chance to experience how the ancient Egyptians lived, cooked, worked, worshipped, entertained themselves, and interacted with their neighbors through building projects that use common household supplies.Detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and templates for creating each project are combined with historical facts and anecdotes, biographies, and trivia for the real-life models of each project. Together they give kids a first-hand look at daily life in ancient Egypt.

The Cat of Bubastes: A Tale of Ancient Egypt (Dover Children's Classics)

Chebron, the young son of an Egyptian high priest, and Amuba, a young slave in the boy's household, are close friends; but their lives are greatly altered when Chebron accidentally kills a cat, an animal held sacred by the ancient Egyptians. Forced to flee for their safety, the boys and their companions begin a long and dangerous journey. A thrilling adventure story, this is also a tale packed with historical facts. Among other fascinating details, young readers learn about the Egyptian religion and geography, how the Nile was used for irrigation, and how the Egyptians made war and were prepared for burial. A captivating book that accurately describes life in a once magnificent civilization, this volume will especially appeal to youngsters fascinated by the life and customs of ancient Egypt.

A History of Ancient Egypt: From the First Farmers to the Great Pyramid (A History of Ancient Egypt, 1)

The ancient world comes to life in the first volume in a two book series on the history of Egypt, spanning the first farmers to the construction of the pyramids. Famed archaeologist John Romer draws on a lifetime of research to tell one history's greatest stories; how, over more than a thousand years, a society of farmers created a rich, vivid world where one of the most astounding of all human-made landmarks, the Great Pyramid, was built. Immersing the reader in the Egypt of the past, Romer examines and challenges the long-held theories about what archaeological finds mean and what stories they tell about how the Egyptians lived. More than just an account of one of the most fascinating periods of history, this engrossing book asks readers to take a step back and question what they've learned about Egypt in the past. Fans of Stacy Schiff's Cleopatra and history buffs will be captivated by this re-telling of Egyptian history, written by one of the top Egyptologists in the world.

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 girl 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.

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.

Seeker of Knowledge: The Man Who Deciphered Egyptian Hieroglyphs

In 1802, Jean-Francois Champollion was eleven years old. That year, he vowed to be the first person to read Egypt’s ancient hieroglyphs. Champollion’s dream was to sail up the Nile in Egypt and uncover the secrets of the past, and he dedicated the next twenty years to the challenge.James Rumford introduces the remarkable man who deciphered the ancient Egyptian script and fulfilled a lifelong dream in the process. Stunning watercolors bring Champollion’s adventure to life in a story that challenges the mind and touches the heart.

The Egyptian Cinderella

This Egyptian spin on the classic Cinderella tale was initially recorded in the first century by a Roman historian and is retold here by folklorist Shirley Climo.

Poor Rhodopis! She has nothing—no mother or father, and no friends. She is a slave, from the far-off country of Greece. Only the beautiful rose-red slippers her master gives her can make Rhodopis smile.

So when a falcon swoops down and snatches one of the slippers away, Rhodopis is heartbroken. For how is she to know that the slipper will land in the lap of the great Pharaoh himself? And who would ever guess that the Pharaoh has promised to find the slipper’s owner and make her queen of all Egypt?

Augustus Caesar's World

In her unique approach, Foster weaves a story of the world around her central character; rather than focusing exclusively on geo-political events, as most textbooks do, she includes stories of scientific discovery and invention, music, literature, art, and religion. Her keen intuition for stories will especially delight and amuse youthful readers. In Augustus Caesar's World, Foster traces the seven major civilizations of Rome, Greece, Israel, Egypt, China, India, and Persia from 4500 B.C. to the time of Augustus Caesar in 44 B.C. and culminating in 14 A.D. Within this timeframe readers will learn not only the stories of Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, and Marc Antony, but also the historian Livy and how Virgil came to write the Aeneid. Foster will then take her readers all over the world to learn what was happening at this same time in China, Persia, India and so on. Foster's detailed pen and ink drawings are fresh and appealing, and her illustrated timelines give a clear sense of chronology, enriching the engaging text.

The Lost Queen of Egypt: The Tomb of Nefertiti

For professor of Egyptology Henry Markham, this would be the crowning glory of his career: an intact tomb of Nefertiti, the great royal wife of Akhenaten and the heretic pharaoh of eighteenth dynasty Egypt, whose bust of exquisite beauty resides in the Berlin Museum, which he had searched for the last ten years. He had an unspoken passion for her only excelled by his young assistant, Steven Sinclair, whose visions and dreams of her haunted him, much to the annoyance of Helen Carter, the freelance journalist on-site who, with her business partner Mike Mitcham, the digs photographer, saw Nefertiti as a rival for his affections. Thanks to a gambling debt, Mike finds himself the proud owner of a large luxury mobile home that four Mossad agents are interested in, along with Emil Brogini, who did a drug deal with two Mossad rogue agents since deceased. The arrival of Henry's estranged sister, Millicent, with her friend Jane Evesham, a gifted clairvoyant, does nothing to improve his temper, especially when Jane tells him they are in great danger. Can the danger come from four renegade Mossad agents or Emil Bratislav Brogini, Mr. Big in Cairo, into every racket going? Jane discovers that Helen has a latent gift of clairvoyance which, with their combined powers in a séance, sends them back to the eighteenth dynasty with Nefertiti, Akhenaten, and danger around every corner as they try to discover who is trying to kill them all using a large band of Libyan bandits. They survive ambushes, assassin's knives, and chariot chases, finally getting back to their own time with Nefertiti.

Pyramid

Pyramid is a strong resource for readers looking to expand their knowledge of ancient Egyptian civilization, history, and architecture.

Award-winning author-illustrator David Macaulay explores the philosophy of life and death in ancient Egypt through richly detailed black-and-white illustrations and clear, concise text.

Though created with middle grade readers in mind, all with interest in the topic will enjoy this impressive look at what many consider to be one of the most awesome of humankind's creations.

Pharaoh's Boat

With poetic language and striking illustrations, Weitzman tells the story of how one of the greatest boats of ancient Egypt came to be built and built again.In the shadow of the Great Pyramid at Giza, the most skilled shipwrights in all of Egypt are building an enormous vessel that will transport Cheops, the mighty pharaoh, across the winding waterway and into a new world. Pharaoh's boat will be a wonder to behold, and well prepared for the voyage ahead. But no one, not even the Egyptian king himself, could have imagined just where the journey of Pharaoh's boat would ultimately lead.

The Winged Cat

Merit is a servant girl in the temple of cat goddesses. In a rage, Waha, the High Priest, kills a sacred car, and Merit sees him do it.But when Merit reports the evil deed to Pharaoh, Waha denies that he is guilty.

Also, look at some of these fun facts about the Great Sphinx of Giza.

Uncovering the Mysteries of The Great Sphinx of Giza

  • Who made it? The mythological statue has the head of a human and the body of a lion. It was built by ancient Egyptians of the Old Kingdom.
  • What is it made from? It is made with a single piece of bedrock. Repairs have been made over time using limestone. This is a single carved piece, not smaller blocks.
  • Where is it located?  Giza, Egypt
  • When was it carved? It was carved in 2500 BC.
  • How big is it? 240 feet long and 66 feet high, it is an impressive sight!
  • Why was it built? It was made for the pharaoh Khafre, the builder of the Second Pyramid at Giza.
  • What happened to his nose? While there are several theories as to what happened to the nose (and it has never been found) close inspection suggests that it was a deliberate act using rods or chisels.
Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Next, look at some more hands-on activities to learn about Ancient Egypt.

Hands-on Activities for Ancient Egypt

  • 7 Fun Ways to Play Go Fish Egyptian Games for Kids
  • Ancient Egypt DIY Simple and Fun Mummification Process Game
  • Egypt Crafts For Kindergarten Create a Fun Kid Sized Mummy
  • Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities
  • The Geronimo Stilton Book Fourth Journey Fun Egypt Game
  • Fun and Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Craft: Create Canopic Jars
  • 11 Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Projects for Middle School
  • Ancient Egyptian Mathematics: Build a LEGO Math Calculator
  • Fun Hands-On History: Ancient Egyptian Collar Craft

Finally, how to make this fun Lego Great Spinx of Giza.

Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

You can find every piece to create your own Sphinx of Giza in this LEGO Classic Creative Box.

You can make your sphinx with any color of bricks.

I chose a light tan to give it the sand look.

You can also use any mix of brick sizes and make the model as large or as small as you wish.

If you are new to building with LEGO, when i say 1×2, etc…

Here is an example of what I mean.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

In addition, for language arts, history and geography you can assign Where Are The Great Pyramids to learn more about the Sphinx as well as the pyramids.

Rather than a list, I am giving you a photo for reference that you can print and have your child gather the pieces or pieces that are as close as possible.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Lay down your base. This is one of the few pieces that does not come in the basic box except in green, so use that if you like.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Place 1×6 pieces on either side, one stud in and one stud away from the edge to create arms.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Fill in a 4×8 area between the “arms” of the monument.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Place another layer of bricks starting on the second stud from the back in a 4×4 grouping.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

For the back half of the lion’s body put pieces together like in this photo

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Use these special rounded pieces to give the straight edges some curve. If you don’t have them you can just finish it off with a straight-edged brick.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

To create the head and headpiece (Nemes) of the pharaoh put these pieces together like this.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Then place them all together.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Put directly in front of the second layer of the body.

If you have the bricks with forward-facing studs this will help create a general face shape.

 If not just use a tall 1×2 brick in its place like this.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: ancient, ancient civilizations, ancient egypt, egypt, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, historyspine, homeschoolhistory, world history

Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

January 22, 2024 | 13 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I am so excited to finally share the free Marco Polo lapbook and unit study. Also, look at my pages Homeschool Lapbooks – Powerful Tools For Mastery Learning and Best Homeschool Unit Studies.

While Marco Polo was growing up in Venice, his father and uncle were exploring and traveling in China.

Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

At that time, it was an almost unexplored land.

And they did not come home until he was 15 years old.

Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

When Marco Polo heard of their stores about China and the Great Khan, he begged to go.

Two years later he was off on an adventure.

And I have quite a few minibooks that cover a variety of topics.

In addition, look at some of these books about Marco Polo.

Books About Marco Polo

I lean toward living books, then like to add reference books as I come across them.

I know some of these you may like to add to your home library.

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.

Marco Polo Lapbook and Unit Study

First, look at these minibooks that are included in this download.

  • Extend a Timeline Book Printable
  • Along the Journey
  • Lapbook Cover
  • Soldier, Merchant, Prisoner
  • Places outside of China
  • About the Mongols
  • Early Life of Marco Polo
  • Did You Know this
  • Travels
  • Great Khan
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

Moreover, look at more ideas for your unit study.

Marco Polo Unit Study Hands-on Activities

  • Make a Persian Mosaic
  • Learn how to make the extend a timeline book
  • Make Terra Cotta Warriors
  • Grab these free Notebooking Pages
  • Create this salt dough map of the Travels of Marco Polo and grab the printable map flags.
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

How to Get the Free Marco Polo Lapbook

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

When you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.
2) Grab the printable.
3) Last, look for my emails in your inbox as a follower. Glad to have you.

Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas
Free Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

13 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Geography Based, History Based, Lapbooks Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

January 2, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We are making a super simple diy clown collar no sew craft to highlight one type of ancient Roman. Also, you’ll love my free Ancient Rome lapbook on my page Ancient Civilizations.

This type of Roman had a place to entertain others – what we know as a clown.

While all the ancient civilizations had a form of silly amusing people who made a living making people laugh, the term ‘clown’ didn’t come to be used until the 16th Century.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

The word clown evolved from the Icelandic word “klunni”  which means a clumsy person.

But for the purposes of keeping it simple we are referring to these ancient funny men as clowns as well as their modern descendants.

They had some things in common, but each had their specialty and as a nod to ‘Weary Willie Day” on December 9th I thought it would be fun to do a project acknowledging his clown ancestors.

Weary Willie was one of the most famous clowns in American history. He was portrayed by Emmet Kelly as a sad hobo clown.

Books for Kids Who Love to Learn About Ancient Rome

Next, look at these books about Ancient Rome. I tend to lean toward living books first, then add reference books while choosing many for a variety of reading levels.

20 Ancient Rome Resources. Books, Pop Up, Coloring & Hands-on Figurines

Whether you're doing a unit study or want to dig deeper about Ancient Rome, you'll love adding a resource or two.

Famous Men of Rome

The Romans were history's great men of action, making the study of Rome ideal for beginners of all ages, but especially for younger students, who are fascinated by the abundant action and drama of Roman history. In addition, an understanding of modern political history is impossible without a thorough understanding of Rome. There are thirty stories covering the history of Rome from its founding under Romulus to the last emperor in the West. Your children will see the rise and fall of a great civilization through the lives of Horatius, Camillus, Caesar, Cicero, Marcus Aurelius, and many other larger-than-life figures. Rome is the model civilization, the mastery of which provides a foundation for all other history study.

Ancient Rome for Kids through the Lives of its Heroes, Emperors, and Philosophers (History for Kids - Story Format)

When I first discovered that my 8-year-old kid believed that the adventures of Odysseus were the actual history of ancient Greece, I panicked and bought him a stack of children's history books. I sat by his side as he started reading about the class structure of Athens and the economic underpinnings of the Greek polis. He yawned. He asked for candy... and then for the Disney Channel...Kids like stories. And when it comes to history, they learn from stories, not from dense paragraphs about the phases of the Bronze age, the location of trade routes, or the injustices of the social order here and there.This book follows the old-fashioned, story-based, traditional route of teaching history - through tales of heroes and kings, with no tribute paid to modern economic and social perspectives. Culture is memes. And that means historical figures, and anecdotes about them. To write this book, I went back to Tacitus, Livy, Suetonius, Cassius Dio, Valerius Maximus, Josephus, Eusebius, Theodoret, and other ancient sources of biographical anecdotes, and extracted from them the stories that will be most memorable to a modern kid

Theras and His Town

Young Theras, born an Athenian, is taken to Sparta by a relative when his father is lost at war. He is forced to live like a Spartan, a brutal life with no pity for those who are not physically perfect and totally obedient to Spartan control. After enduring rigorous training and repeated cruel incidents, he escapes with a Perioikoi boy and heads for his beloved Athens. Here is the story of a hard and dangerous journey with Snedeker's amazing historical accuracy. 

Tools of the Ancient Romans: A Kid's Guide to the History & Science of Life in Ancient Rome (Build It Yourself)

Tools of the Ancient Greeks: A Kid’s Guide to the History and Science of Life in Ancient Greece explores the scientific discoveries, athletic innovations, engineering marvels, and innovative ideas created more than two thousand years ago. Through biographical sidebars, interesting facts, fascinating anecdotes, and fifteen hands-on activities, readers will learn how Greek innovations and ideas have shaped world history and our own world view.

Detectives in Togas

In these two delightful history-mysteries, seven boys in Ancient Rome solve strange crimes . . . thanks to some help from their cranky teacher, a little bit of logic, and a lot of amusing misadventure.

The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers (The Thrifty Guides)

The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome contains information vital to the sensible time traveler:   • Where can I find a decent hotel room in ancient Rome for under five sesterces a day? Is horse parking included?   • What do I do if I’m attacked by barbarians?   • What are my legal options if I’m fed to the lions at the Colosseum? All this is answered and more. There is handy advice on finding the best picnicking spots to watch Julius Caesar’s assassination at the Roman Forum in 44 BC, as well as helpful real estate tips to profit from the great Roman fire of AD 64. There are even useful recommendations on which famous historical figures to meet for lunch, and a few nifty pointers on how to avoid being poisoned, beheaded, or torn apart by an angry mob.

Time Traveler

Takes readers back in time to illustrate the exciting happenings of daily life

The Bronze Bow: A Newbery Award Winner

Daniel bar Jamin will stop at nothing to seek revenge for his father's death at the hands of the Roman Empire.After Daniel bar Jamin's father is crucified by the Roman Empire, Daniel wants nothing more than to rid his land of Israel of Roman control once and for all. Yet when David meets Jesus of Nazareth, a traveling carpenter with a gentle message of love and forgiveness, David starts to realize that the hate festering in his heart might be his true enemy after all.

Eyewitness Ancient Rome: Discover One of History's Greatest Civilizations

From Roman emperors and gods and goddesses to soldiers and gladiators, step into the exciting world of ancient Rome.Who were Rome's most famous emperors? What was everyday life like for a soldier in the Roman army? How did the citizens of ancient Rome live? Did gladiators really fight to the death in the mighty Colosseum? Find out the answers to all these questions, and many more, in Eyewitness: Ancient Rome.

SuperToob: Ancient Rome

Use these fun figurines for art study, for a sensory bin for younger kids or for art inspiration.

Life in Ancient Rome Coloring Book (Dover Ancient History Coloring Books)

At the peak of its power, the Roman Empire stretched thousands of miles in all directions: north to what today is England, westward to Spain, to Armenia in the east, and Egypt in the south. The growth, development, and cultural achievements of that magnificent civilization are brought to life by the artist John Green in this exciting and fact-filled coloring book.

The Romans Pop-Up: Pop-up Book to Make Yourself

There are 6 scenes to make in this book - combining the pleasure of seeing them pop up with interesting information and ideas. There are a number of mini popups as well. Close the book and they fold away. Open it and they popup again. These vivid, colorful three-dimensional scenes help to bring Ancient Civilisations to life in a way which no other kind of book can. Scenes: The City of Rome, The Forum, The Roman House, The Army of Rome, Entertainment, Ostia - the Port of Rome.

Attack at the Arena

Patrick and Beth learn that Mr. Whittaker’s fancy ring can be seen inside the Imagination Station but not outside of the machine. A mysterious letter leads the cousins to fifth-century Rome in search of a special cup that belongs to a monk. If found, the cup could keep the mysterious Albert out of prison.At the Roman Colosseum, Emperor Honorius is hosting a gladiator battle in celebration of a war victory. Beth attends the event as the emperor’s slave; Patrick attends as a monk’s apprentice but is taken prisoner and sent to fight in the arena. During their adventure, the cousins meet Telemachus (a true historical figure), a monk who believes that fighting is wrong. Telemachus is willing to risk everything―even his life―to stop the killing. When the cousins return with the cup, they find that a third letter has been sent with more information about Albert’s fate.

Growing Up In Ancient Rome

Describes daily life in ancient Rome, discussing family life, entertainment, schools, religion, and other aspects.

The Story of the Romans: A History of Ancient Rome for Young Readers - its Legends, Military and Culture as a Republic and Empire

Who Were the Romans? (Starting Point History)

This series consists of simple illustrated guides to answer children's questions about history and invite comparisons with life today. This particular title deals with the Romans.

In the Daily Life of the Ancient Romans (Gods & Goddesses Of...)

This exciting new series explores ancient life by examining the traditions and religious beliefs of each culture. Through photographs, illustrations, and cut-away, detailed diagrams, each book considers the way religious beliefs affected everything from food, drink, and entertainment to rituals surrounding birth and death

Science in Ancient Rome (Science of the Past)

Describes how the Romans put to use and expanded the scientific achievements of earlier civilizations.

Roman Empire: Rise & The Fall. Explore The History, Mythology, Legends, Epic Battles & Lives Of The Emperors, Legions, Heroes, Gladiators & More

The Roman Empire may have fallen thousands of years ago, but the lessons and the legacy left behind lives on to this day

From a tiny settlement on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome grew into a colossal, unstoppable force. At its peak, The Empire dominated the world from Europe, West Asia, North Africa, and many more territories.

Never again would the world see such an influential power.

In this epic narrative, History Brought Alive presents an intriguing dive into Roman History, Legends, Facts, Myths and much more. Covering thousands of years the study of Roman history is vast and complex. Much like the Ancient Romans themselves, in order to study them, we need to follow structure and have an open mind.

See Inside Ancient Rome

Visit the world of ancient Rome, from bustling streets and the busy port to steaming baths and gruesome games. This book reveals how the Romans really lived.

Ancient Roman Clown or Jester

In Ancient Roman times, there were jesters as well as clowns.

But the clowns then were very different from the circus clowns we know today.

Is there a difference between a clown and a jester?

A jester is an entertainer who jokes and mocks people and makes up improvisations as he goes, making fun of the audience.

A clown is a performance artist who uses slapstick to make fun of themselves.

Both wear colorful clothing, and their main goal is to amuse people.

Jesters were known by several names- court jesters, buffoons, fools, or jokers and often belonged to the household of a nobleman or a monarch to entertain royal guests.

In ancient Rome, they were called Balatro. They were paid well for their amusement.

They were also performers who traveled around entertaining townspeople at fairs or in the market square.

Be sure to check out this post Ancient Rome (Hands-on History): Paint a Jester to learn more about this type of trickster.

Clowns- Some historians believe Ancient Rome is where the modern idea of circus clowns truly evolved.

Clowns of Ancient Rome were divided into 4 different categories.

They were sannio, stupidus, moriones, and scurra.

Types of Clowns in Ancient Rome

  1. Sannio – Did not wear a mask but used physical comedy, making funny grimaces of their faces and bodies.  They were known for their skill with mime.
  1. Stupidus- This type of clown relied on slapstick humor and riddles, using current events for their material and getting physical with fellow clowns for a laugh.  Like a precursor to Harlequins, they were bald and wore long pointed hats along with bright multicolored outfits. Stupidius is the Latin word for ‘ mimic fool.’  This is where we get our not-so-nice word ‘stupid’ from.
  1. Moriones- Here is where we get our word for ‘moron’. It was common for the royalty and Courts to keep freaks and fools for entertainment. It was believed that they were given special powers from the gods. Because of that, they were mostly treated well and as if they were a lucky charm.  
  1. Scurra- The Latin word scurra, which means “buffoon” or “jester is where we get the modern word ‘scurrilous’ which means grossly or obscenely abusive. Scurra were at the bottom of the clown classes and would have been ancient Rome’s version of a hobo clown. They typically had a mental illness or physical disability and would use this to get their laughs and attention.
How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

For a more modern circus clown, you have to check out this tutorial for Giant Clown Shoes as a base for a full costume idea.

Next, look at more Ancient Rome activities for kids.

Ancient Rome Activities for Kids

  • Ancient Rome Lapbook for Kids and Fun Hands-on Ideas
  • The Journey Through Time #2 Back In Time Ancient Rome Fun Mosaic
  • Geronimo Stilton Adventures The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time (Colosseum Craft)
  • Ancient Rome (Hands-on History): Paint a Jester
  • How to Make an Easy Roman Helmet & Shield & A Set of Printable Wings

Finally, look how to make this diy clown collar no sew craft.

DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Rather than create the typical jester collar I wanted to create a simple white ruffle collar like some of the first clowns might have sported before costumes became more elaborate.

You will need:

  • 8×12 craft felt
  • Ribbon
  • scissors
  • Hot glue gun/sticks
  • Plate or other large round object
  • Smaller round object
  • clothespins
How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

First, trace a large object like a place or bowl, taking up as much of the felt as you can to make it as large as you can.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Trace a little more than half of a second smaller object near the top to create the neck area.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Cut out your collar.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Use scissors to cut a wavy edge around the front.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Next, mark a few spots for ruffles, about 4-5, and put a ¼” line of hot glue near where it will rest against your neck.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

Quickly pinch the fabric together and put a clothespin on the opposite side to hold it together until the glue hardens.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

To give your collar a bit of a lace look, fold the fabric everywhere you made a ruffle and cut a small shape or two out of both sides right along the fold.

Open your collar, cut a small hole on each side, and run your ribbon through to tie the collar on easily.

How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew

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How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

December 25, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When you are learning about watercraft, ship terminology is an important part of the lesson. Also, you’ll love my post Ship Craft Ideas.

Whether it be battleships, pirate ships, cruise ships, cargo ships, or sailboats, your child will want to learn ship words.

Cruise into some fun lessons on the various types of ships and what they are called, how they are used, and who they are used by.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

I have included ship terminology, some resources, and even an activity to get you going on your study.

Hands-on activities are one of the best ways to learn about a topic.

Besides, I have an inexpensive activity that is so much fun- how to make a kid’s ship wheel.

I found both key parts at Dollar Tree with plenty of leftover craft sticks.

Do not overlook Dollar Tree for school supplies or items for awesome crafts.

They have so much that I never have a shortage of ideas when i walk up and down their aisles.

Books for Kids Who Love Boats, Ships and Sailing

First, look at some of these books about ships and sailing.

17 Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Learning About Watercraft

Add some of these fun books and resources to your learning day about ships.

Stickmen's Guide to Watercraft (Stickmen's Guides to How Everything Works)

How does a giant cruise ship stay upright? Just how big is an aircraft carrier? How are submarines powered? Join the Stickmen for a close look at how watercrafts work, though be careful―you may get into deep water!

The Sailing Frigate: A History in Ship Models

The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich houses the largest collection of scale ship models in the world. Many of the models are official, contemporary artifacts made by the craftsmen of the Royal Navy or the shipbuilders themselves, ranging from the mid-seventeenth century to the present day. As such they represent a three-dimensional archive of unique importance and authority. Treated as historical evidence, they offer more detail than even the best plans, and demonstrate exactly what the ships looked like in a way that even the finest marine painter could not achieve. Now available in paperback, this book tells the story of the evolution of the cruising ship under sail. It includes a large number of model photos all in full-color as well as close-up and detail views. These are captioned in depth, but many are also annotated to focus attention on interesting or unusual features. Although pictorial in emphasis, The Sailing Frigate weaves the pictures into an authoritative text, producing an unusual and attractive form of technical history.

Henry & the Buccaneer Bunnies

Step aboard, buccaneers and book lovers! On the Salty Carrot sails a wild, rowdy band of Buccaneer Bunnies, led by Barnacle Black Ear, the baddest bunny brute of all time. His son, Henry, would rather read books than shout "Shiver me timbers!" or make prisoners walk the plank, even if it means swabbing the decks as punishment. But when a crashing, thrashing, bashing wildcat of a storm threatens them all, will Henry and his landlubbin’ library save the day?

The Sinking of the Vasa: A Shipwreck of Titanic Proportions

This is the saga of the great Swedish warship, the Vasa. Built to be the crown jewel of the Swedish Navy, the Vasa capsized not a mile into her maiden voyage in 1628―a tragedy resulting in many deaths and great loss. But who was to blame? Award-winning author Russell Freedman explores the history of this ship, and her resurrection from the seas in 1961. William Low’s gorgeous illustrations bring The Sinking of the Vasa to life.

Island Boy (Picture Puffins)

The acclaimed author of Miss Rumphius recounts the lives of four generations living on a New England coastal island and the importance of family ties.The youngest and quietest of 12 children, Matthias grew closest to Tibbets Island, learning its secrets through the years. And though in later years he sailed to faraway places, he always returned to the island he loved.

My Blue Boat

A child journeys from her bathtub on an imaginary ocean voyage. Her blue boat sails across the bathtub, into the harbor, between the whales, under the moon and the stars...until it manages to find its way home. A simple tale and light-filled watercolors together create the voyage of every child's dream.

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch:

Readers today are still fascinated by “Nat", an eighteenth-century nautical wonder and mathematical wizard. Nathaniel Bowditch grew up in a sailor's world—Salem in the early days, when tall-masted ships from foreign ports crowded the wharves. But Nat didn't promise to have the makings of a sailor; he was too physically small. Nat may have been slight of build, but no one guessed that he had the persistence and determination to master sea navigation in the days when men sailed only by “log, lead, and lookout.? Nat's long hours of study and observation, collected in his famous work, The American Practical Navigator (also known as the “Sailors' Bible"), stunned the sailing community and made him a New England hero.

Battleship With Planes Strategy Board Game

I could hardly talk about a shipping unit without mentioning the classic game Battleship could I?

USS Arizona Battleship Model Military Ship

Complete deck fittings including searchlights, motor launches and whaleboats, rangefinders, ladders, cranes, and tripod masts with observation nests.

Stephen Biesty's Cross-Sections Man-of-War

Packed with extraordinary illustrations, this history book for children covers everything from warship design to navigation. Biesty's incredible drawings slice through a man-of-war to explore every corner, from the crow's nest to the stinking hold. Packed with fascinating facts and gory details, the pages teem with sailors going about their duties. Find out how gun crews fired a cannon, examine a surgeon's toolkit, and learn the best way to wriggle the maggots out of the ship's biscuits. Look out, too, for the stowaway on every page. He's the one with spiky hair, and there's a reward for his capture!

A Kid's Book on Boatbuilding

As a kid, Will Ansel would spend hours rowing the creeks around Annapolis, Maryland. From his boat he could look down on the wrecks of Chesapeake skipjacks, and watch the turtles sun themselves on deckbeams and the tops of centerboard trunks. He found other types of Chesapeake boats there too, including the old "log" boats. Years later, Will built scaled-down skipjacks, wrote about them, and eventually went to work at Mystic Seaport as a ships' carpenter and boatbuilder. Will now lives in Georgetown, Maine, in an old house built at the water's edge, with a small shop and dock. The inventory of boats and kayaks is currently seven. Besides keeping up, using, and adding to these, he does some writing and painting, and work around a cabin in the woods.

Old Wood Boat

Raise the sails and follow the wind across the green sea in this captivating marriage of lyrical prose and intricate illustrations from a renowned West Coast artist.Old wood boat remembers the wind. Dilapidated and parted from the sea, she remembers and waits as her mast cracks and blackberry vines creep across her deck. But one day, a family tows her home. Scraped, scrubbed, sanded, and varnished, she is made beautiful and seaworthy again. After libations have been poured out, the family casts off, and old wood boat embarks on adventure once more. In this love letter to sailing, heralded artist Nikki McClure tells the story of a restored boat in timeless and reverent prose that perfectly accompanies her stunning cut-paper illustrations. At once delicate and bold, each page is masterful, rendered from a single sheet of black paper with precision and care that is sure to enthrall readers from coast to coast.

Toy Boat

This classic tale makes the perfect gift for children who love adventure!

A little boy has a toy boat that he made out of a can, a cork, a yellow pencil, and some white cloth. The boy and his boat are inseparable . . . until the day the wind pushes the boat out into the wide lake, and the little boat must face fierce waves, a grumpy ferry, a sassy schooner, and a growling speed boat if he is to find his way home. From Randall de Seve and bestselling artist Loren Long, creator of the Otis series and illustrator of The Little Engine That Could, comes a child-friendly adventure sure to inspire imaginative toy play.

Oars, Sails and Steam: A Picture Book of Ships

The evolution of shipbuilding reflects the growth of civilization, and in Oars, Sails and Steam, Edwin Tunis has produced a beautifully illustrated and skillfully
written history of water transport from the dugout to the aircraft carrier. He resents the most interesting and important types of boats and ships in chronological order, revealing each advance that made navigation easier, faster, and more efficient. Every page in this delightful book becomes a new adventure in the story of humanity's progress on traveling across the seas. The Egyptian sailboats that plied the waters of the Nile in 4700 b.c. give way to Phoenician warboats, Greek war galleys and Roman triremes, which in turn are surpassed by Norse long ships, Mediterranean carracks, Elizabethan galleons, and British East Indiaman. The Steam Age is represented by John Fitch's 1787 Delaware River steamboat; the 1807 Clermont, which made five miles per hour against the current of the Hudson; and the Curaçao, which in 1827 became the first ship to cross the Atlantic almost entirely under steam power. Graceful clipper ships, profitable whaling barks, reliable tramp steamers, opulent steam liners, and deadly warships, from destroyers to submarines, round out Tunis's illustrated history.

In addition to his fine drawings of the vessels, Tunis includes a glossary of seagoing terms and detailed diagrams that take readers below decks, up in the rigging, and alongside the gunners of the U.S.S. Raleigh. Remarkable for its clarity and accuracy, Oars, Sails and Steam, first published in 1952, is a treasury for all those who are sailors at heart.

Lightship

 Once, lightships anchored on waters across America, on the oceans, and in the Great Lakes, floating where lighthouses could not be built.

The Little Sailboat

Mr. Small is a sailor in this maritime adventure! Captain Small and his dog Tinker sail and fish together. When a storm comes, Captain Small heads for the safety of the shore. A comforting, nostalgic story full of information about sailing.

Classic Ships, Their History and How to Model Them: Cutty Sark No. 3 (Classic ships: Their history & how to model them)

Next, let’s find out the definition of what is a ship.

Ship- A vessel that is larger than a boat and is used for transporting people or goods by sea. They are classified as a ship based on their size, shape, load capacity, and purpose.

Boats on the other hand are smaller watercraft. And are intended for navigation of coastal and inland waters rather than ocean faring.

Now that we know what defines a ship, we will move on to learning about the various types of ships that are or were used in more modern times

Types of Ship Terminology

Passenger Ships- Before airplanes people used to travel on ocean liners, they had dining rooms and cabins where guests could sleep.

Today big ships used for travel and entertainment are cruise ships. You will find swimming pools, bowling alleys, restaurants, and more onboard these multilevel ships.

Find out about the most famous passenger ship of the past with my RMS Titanic Unit Study and Free Lapbook.

Aircraft Carriers- An aircraft carrier is a warship that is a sea-traveling airbase. These massive ships have tops that are almost entirely a flight deck.

The deck is a landing and take-off point for the aircraft it carries. Aircraft carriers are used by the United States Navy.

There are currently 11 active US nuclear-powered fleet carriers in the water. Learn How to Make an Aircraft Carrier.

Battleship- A large warship that is armored and has large caliber guns. 

The first battleship was the USS Texas in 1892. However battleships are no longer used in war today; they were retired as strictly museum ships following the Cold War in 1992.

They were initially used to attack the defenses of the enemy’s coast in preparation for amphibious assaults.

This model would be fantastic to put together as an art project while you learn about battleships.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Oil Tanker- Like the name implies tankers carry oil in bulk within their cargo spaces. An oil tanker transports crude and refined oil from port to port and some can even refuel moving other moving ships.

Cargo Ships- They are freighters and a merchant ship that carries cargo, goods, and materials from one port to another.

They are massive and carry these items inside thousands of giant containers like the big metal boxes you see semis pulling down the road.

The first container ship appeared in 1956. It could only hold about 1,000 containers; now there is one being built that can hold up to 30,000. This is how we get the majority of our goods from overseas.

You can build whatever type ship you like in a bottle with these Ship Craft Ideas & Ship Terminology | Fun Ship in A Bottle Craft for Kids.

Submarines- Submersible crafts are considered ships but are referred to as boats.

They are able to dive a minimum of 800 feet below the surface and can stay submerged for 3 months.

Submarines are used by scientists and the military for exploration, patrol, and attack enemy ships in wartime.

How to Make A Ship Wheel With Kids

You will need:

  • Craft sticks
  • Styrofoam wreath form
  • Canning lid (or cardboard)
  • Brown craft paint
  • Gold craft paint
  • Foam brush
  • Hot glue gun/ sticks
How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

First, start by painting your mason jar lid or a circle cut out of cardboard gold, you will likely need several coats to cover it well. Set aside to dry.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Then, push 5-6 craft sticks into the center of the wreath form from the inside stopping before they pierce the other side, securing each place they go in with hot glue to hold them well.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Now push the same number of popsicle sticks through the outside of the round, lining them up with the others but pushing just above or below the other stick so they can go as far in as possible.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Add hot glue at each point where the sticks go into the styrofoam wreath form.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Be sure all your center spikes just overlap in the center, it doesn’t have to be perfect as you will be covering it up.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Paint the entire wreath form and craft sticks with brown paint, it will take at least 2 coats to cover it well, and allow it to dry.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

Flip it over and hot glue the painted round over the center, attaching all the sticks to the lid or at least each other.

I think this turned out so fun and would make a great handmade decor item too.

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology

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

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

December 21, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I’m showing you how to make a very simple Ancient Mesopotamia bread recipe to get an idea of the most basic fare they would have eaten in ancient times. Also, look at Hands-on Ancient Mesopotamia: Easy STEM Irrigation Activity.

Bread was just one part of the diet enjoyed along the Tigris River in those very early days.

Food in Ancient Mesopotamia was a rich and varied diet.

It consisted of grains and produce that grew along the Fertile Crescent, meat from livestock animals, legumes, herbs and spices.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Archaeologists originally thought that Mesopotamians ate gruel as their main diet.

However, a French archeologist deciphered an Akkadian cuneiform tablet in the 1980’s that contained a Sumerian-Akkadian dictionary.

Within was a “cookbook” listing the words for over 800 different food items, with 20 different cheeses, 100 kinds of soup and 300 different breads. A very full and exciting meal plan indeed.

The fertile crescent had an abundance of water and rich soil making it the perfect place for early crops to grow. The water was also a big attraction for animals, making it a great place to hunt as well.

Sadly, the modern day Fertile Crescent is not very fertile due to the fact that in the 1950’s irrigation systems were put in place that carried the water away from the Mesopotamian marshes and made them dry up.

Here you can find some great information and an Easy STEM Irrigation Activity to learn more about how they were able to move water to spread over all their crops to make it such a place of plenty.

Food In Ancient Mesopotamia

Grains

The main crops during this time were barley, wheat, and millet.

Grains were ground into cereal grains and used in various recipes or ground as flour for bread.

Breads were made both leavened and unleavened (made without leaven- yeast or baking powder) as part of their diet.

Grains could also be made into a drink for consumption and were the base of a very popular drink for Mesopotamians – beer.

A flatbread is a bread that is made with flour; water, milk, yogurt, or other liquid; and salt, and then it is rolled into flattened dough. This is what we will be making today.

Produce

The rich soil made legumes such as onions, onions, garlic, melons, eggplants, and lettuce.

Also, apples grapes, plums, figs, dates, pomegranates, pistachios, eggplants, apricots cucumbers, and herbs.

Spices grew plentifully and made for a varied diet.

There has been evidence uncovered that food was not just eaten for the energy it provided to their bodies, but recipes were created and documented to make it an enjoyable experience and included a lot of variety.

Meat

Their meat came from livestock raised along the banks like goats, pork, cattle and sheep. They also caught fish and hunted gazelles, ducks, deer, and other wild game.

Meat was braised over large open fires to seal in juices.

It would then be trimmed and cut into small pieces where it simmered in a pot on stove over a long period of time, like a modern-day crock pot does.

Meat was also roasted, grilled, boiled, and cooked over a spit.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Also, you’ll love some of these books to add to your reading day.

I lean toward living books then like to add reference books.

Books About 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, add these fun recipes.

 Ancient Mesopotamia Recipes to Try

  • Find out more about Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): and Cook Sebetu Rolls.
  • Cook Like an Ancient Mesopotamian With the World’s Oldest Recipes – Mersu and Meat Broth.
  • Try making Jacob’s Lentil Stew like the ancient Israelites would have eaten.
  • While the recipe isn’t ancient, the cuneiform is, and creating edible archeology with these Gingerbread Cuneiform Tablets provides a fun and tasty activity to pair with learning.

Before you begin your bread recipe check out 2 Minute Time Machine- Bread for a quick interesting glance at ancient roots of bread and beyond.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

You might also try a few other foods that would have been enjoyed at the same time as this bread recipe.

A taste test including olives, olive oil, figs, and other tasty bites would really enhance this lesson.

More Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on Activities

  • Hands-on Geography Mesopotamia: Fun Salt Dough Map
  • Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): Cook Sebetu Rolls
  • Hands-on Ancient Mesopotamia: Easy STEM Irrigation Activity

Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Unleavened bread was a common food staple in Ancient Mesopotamia, and it was likely a very simple recipe of water and flour. 

This bread is very dense and does not have much flavor, you can add additional salts, seasonings, spices, chopped fruits, or nuts such as figs or dates to give it more flavoring.

You will need:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup water
  • ¾ teaspoon of Salt
  • Honey to taste-optional
How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

First, combine the flour, water, salt, and honey to sweeten if desired until well mixed in a large bowl.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Knead the dough into one or two thin, flat patties.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and allow the dough to sit overnight.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

Lightly spray or use a silicone mat on a baking sheet to keep bread from sticking.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees f.

Flip dough out onto the prepared baking pan and shape the flat patty again as needed.

Bake for 30 minutes, remove from the oven and cool.

Try the bread as is or dip it in olive oil.

How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe

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

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