Toga Day!!!

On Friday February 10th and on Monday the 13th, Mr. Halleen’s Intro To IB World History class debated like Roman Emperors. The idea was planned by Mr. Halleen and student teacher Ms. Walsh, although the original idea was the product of Ms. Walsh. For extra credit students could wear togas to get more into the roman spirit.

“[Ms. Walsh] originated the idea for this debate, I just gave her my input and advice,” said Mr. Halleen.

Before the debate students were assigned one out of the following Roman emperors; Nero, Caligula, Hadrian, Trajan, Domitian, and Marcus Aurelius. They were then tasked with gathering information on the emperor they were assigned. By gathering information students were able to gather a greater understanding of their emperor and how they may make certain decisions.

“These emperors were selected to highlight their similarities as well as their differences. For example, three of them are remembered as some of “the good emperors” while the other three are positioned in history as some of the worst leaders of all time. However, all six left their mark on their empire, and most certainly affected the direction in which Rome was propelled into the future,” said Ms. Walsh.

Students debated as if they were the emperor they were assigned. This was easier to accomplish for students because of the research they did previously. By debating as a Roman Emperor students used inference skills to decide what their emperor would actually do.

“The most important aspect of this activity involves the students debating from the perspective of the emperor they are assigned. This provides the students the opportunity to move past the one dimensional learning that is often associated with history classes, and advance towards a higher order of thinking,” said Ms. Walsh.

By debating as a Roman emperor students thought more about what they were learning which helped them get more into depth with learning. Not only was learning more in depth but it was also far more interesting than just taking notes for students.

“By doing this instead of taking notes it allowed real connections to be made instead of on pen and paper,” said student Reagan McKeown.

“Ultimately, this assignment allows students to cultivate a personal connection with world history. Debating from the emperor’s point of view is both engaging and fun. It allows students to put the things they have learned to practical use,” said Ms. Walsh.