Hannibal: The Carthaginian General Who Defied Rome | Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Looking for a dynamic way to engage your students in the study of Ancient Rome? This comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet focuses on Hannibal, the brilliant Carthaginian general who nearly brought the Roman Republic to its knees. From his legendary crossing of the Alps with war elephants to his tactical triumph at the Battle of Cannae, students will dive deep into the history of the Second Punic War and analyze how one man came close to altering the course of Roman history.

This resource includes a detailed, high-interest article divided into well-

organized sections that cover Hannibal's early life, his leadership during the Second Punic War, his military strategies, and his lasting impact on military history. The reading also incorporates a primary source excerpt from Livy, providing a firsthand perspective for students to analyze.

Key Features:

• Multiple-Choice Questions: Assess students' understanding of key events, strategies, and Hannibal’s historical significance.
• Matching Questions: Reinforce important terms, figures, and battles from the reading.
• Fill-in-the-Blank Questions: Solidify students’ knowledge of critical facts and concepts.
• Short Answer Questions: Encourage deeper reflection on Hannibal’s military tactics, leadership, and Rome’s response to his invasion.
• Primary Source Analysis: A close reading of Livy's description of Hannibal’s crossing of the Alps, complete with guiding questions for analysis.

This worksheet is perfect for middle and high school social studies or history classes and can be used for independent reading assignments, group activities, or as part of a lesson on Ancient Rome, military history, or leadership strategies. It's a great tool for deeper learning and can easily be used for sub plans.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will analyze the life and military career of Hannibal Barca, focusing on his strategies during the Second Punic War.
• Students will understand the significance of key battles, such as the Battle of Cannae, and the tactics used.
• Students will evaluate the broader impact of Hannibal's campaigns on both Rome and Carthage.
• Students will engage with a primary historical source and develop critical thinking skills by answering related questions.

Common Core Alignment:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.10: Read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 9–10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

This resource would be especially useful in units on Ancient Rome, military history, strategic warfare, and Roman vs. Carthaginian conflicts.

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