Ancient Greece

The whole school is involved in studying Ancient Greece. The 2^nd and 3^rd graders focused their study on how the Ancient Greek civilization has enriched our own culture. We looked specifically at theater, architecture, democracy, and philosophy. Students created a book illustrating their discoveries. One field trip involved visiting Thornden Park’s amphitheater and comparing it to the modern day theater at Syracuse Stage. After looking at the construction of ancient Greek temples we went on a “Column Hunt,” informally tallying the number of Ionic, Doric and Corinthian columns in parts of downtown Syracuse. In our books we shared our favorite Greek gods and goddesses stories after listening to D'Aulaire's Book of Greek Myths. When we studied maps, we noticed how important the Mediterranean and Aegean seas were to the Greeks, using them for travel and trade. Finally we learned about the philosophers – especially Socrates - and will be participating in our own re-enactment of the trial of Socrates.