how this unit will work

I have a feeling we are not going to have our schedule disrupted over and over by snow and ice like we have so far this semester.  So I want to try something different for our unit on the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

Instead of lectures and PowerPoints, let's make this a project-based unit.  And by student projects, I don't mean YOU make a PowerPoint and lecture on it.  I encourage the use of live demonstrations, video, or the performing arts.  Here are some sample ideas:

• Construct a map (real or virtual) showing the expansion of the Roman Empire over time
• Make and model authentic clothing from the Roman Empire
• Change history!  Save the Roman Empire!  Present a plan where the Romans could have done things differently, and saved their Empire 
• Demonstrate what it was like to be a woman during this time period
• Become a famous Roman (Julius Caesar, Caesar Augustus, or one of the many other emperors), and demonstrate just how you rule
• Feed the class an authentic meal from this time period, complete with an explanation as to why you chose this particular food and ingredients
• Demonstrate your knowledge of Roman architecture by constructing a scale-model Colosseum (or Circus Maximus, or building of your choice)
• Chariot racing.  Gladiator combat.  Hmmm...
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the Punic Wars (strategy, weaponry, armors, tactics)
• Show how the United States is like the Roman Empire, and present evidence how we are doomed to the same fate as the failed Roman Empire (or, show how we can avoid that fate)
• Stage and perform a scene from one of the famous Roman playwrights, such as Seneca, Plautus, Terrence (teacher approval needed, depending on which play you choose)
• Perform one of Cicero's inspiring speeches
• Show how your basic Roman citizen lived during this time
• Stage a slave rebellion
• Write and perform an original song describing some aspect of life in the Roman Empire

You may present your own idea for my approval.  I will be allowing SOME class time for you to work on this.  We have two weeks before break, so from now until April 10, we will study Rome.  On Friday, April 11, we will take our 100-point test.  And when we return from Easter break (which is Saturday, April 12 until Monday, April 21), we will take two days to present your 200-point projects (Tue-Wed, April 22-23).  Groups can be no larger than four people; presentations will be 5 - 10 minutes.  Each project must be accompanied by a short paper explaining how you researched (with your sources properly cited) and put together your project.  

If you wish to finish your project before we go on break, you are absolutely free to do so, if you do not want your vacation to be disrupted by schoolwork.  You are also free to use some time over your ten-day break to make this project fantastic.  The choice is yours, and it is something you should consider when deciding who will be in your group.

I will give you more details over the coming days, but this should give you more than enough to get started.  As always, see me with questions or ideas.