Things You'll Need:
- 1 can of Garbanzo beans Blender 2 tbsp. Crushed sesame seeds ½ tsp. Crushed garlic ¼ tsp. Crushed black pepper Water Small bowl Extra virgin olive oil Pita bread Photos of Greek sculptures and pottery Self-hardening clay Paint Paint brushes
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Step 1
Explain the importance of farming to the ancient Greeks. Although the large rocky mountains and long dry summers made farming difficult, the Greek people were able to grow grapes to make wine and barley, but the main crop was olives. The ancient Greeks also raised goats and sheep for their meat and the wool they produced was used for blankets and clothing.
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Step 2
Sample Greek food by making hummus dip with the class. Pour a large can of garbanzo beans in the blender. Add 2 tbsp. crushed sesame seeds, ½ tsp. of crushed garlic, 2 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. crushed black pepper. Add just enough water to cover the mixture and blend until smooth. Place the hummus in a small bowl and cover with a thin layer of extra virgin olive oil. Serve with pita bread.
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Step 3
Discuss the idea of democracy with the students. Democracy began over 2000 years ago in ancient Greece. While most ancient lands were ruled by kings, the citizens of Athens were voting to choose their leaders. Unfortunately, slaves and women were not considered citizens and could not participate in the voting process.
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Step 4
Study the educational process in ancient Greece. The Greek people had their own alphabet, and the children attended school every day. Students used pens made of animal bones or bronze called a stylus. The children were able to write by pressing the pen on wax-covered wooden tablets. Children used counting beads to solve math problems. The boards had beads that moved up and down to represent different number values. Once this part of the lesson is over, have the children write messages to each other using the Greek alphabet.
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Step 5
Share photos of Greek sculptures and pottery with the class. The Ancient Greeks carved statues from bronze and marble to adorn their temples. They also used clay to make practical items such as jars to hold wine or olive oil, as well as plates and cups. Provide the students with self-hardening clay, assorted paints and paint brushes to design their own piece of Greek-inspired pottery.
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Step 6
Explain to the students that the first Olympic Games were held in ancient Greece as a way to honor Zeus, the king of gods. Then, hold your own Olympic Games on the school playground. The children can participate in games such as the ring toss and relay races.
