Task

You are living in Rome in the year A.D. 80. You have just returned from the Colosseum, where the city is celebrating the building's opening with festivities and entertainment. The entertainment included gladiator fights and exotic animals. You also saw the emperor and other high officials of the Roman government. Excited about the events of the day, you decide to write a letter to a friend sharing your experiences at the Colosseum.

You will research the gladiators and animals, the Colosseum's architecture, and the role of the emperor. You will also consider what the Colosseum festivities tell you about Roman culture and politics. You will write a two– to three-page letter and draw pictures of the things you have seen at the Colosseum. Then partner with a classmate to read and evaluate each other's letters.