Roman Gladiators: The Brutal Spectacle of the Colosseum – Reading Comprehension Worksheet with Primary Source

Captivate your students with the thrilling yet brutal world of Roman gladiators! This reading comprehension worksheet delves into the lives of gladiators, their deadly battles in the Colosseum, and the social and political significance of these bloody games in ancient Rome. Students will also analyze a thought-provoking primary source from the philosopher Seneca, offering critical insights into Roman views on entertainment and violence.

This worksheet includes:

• Comprehensive Reading Passage: A detailed exploration of Roman gladiators, the spectacle of the Colosseum, and the role of gladiatorial combat in Roman society.
• Primary Source Analysis: An excerpt from Seneca, challenging students to consider the morality and cultural implications of the gladiatorial games.
• Multiple-Format Questions: Includes multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short-answer questions designed to assess comprehension and stimulate critical thinking.
• Answer Key: Full answer key provided for quick grading and ease of use.
• Flexible Use: Perfect for deeper learning, class discussions, homework, or sub plans.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will examine the lives of Roman gladiators and understand the social and cultural significance of the gladiatorial games.
• Students will analyze a primary source to understand contemporary Roman attitudes toward violence and entertainment.
• Students will explore the decline of the gladiatorial games and the impact of Christianity on this Roman tradition.

Recommended Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a primary or secondary source and summarize how key events unfold.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.9: Integrate information from diverse sources, both primary and secondary, into a cohesive understanding of an event.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-12.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Perfect For:

• World History
• Ancient History
• Social Studies classes for grades 9-12.

This worksheet not only brings ancient history to life but also encourages critical thinking about societal values, power, and entertainment in the Roman Empire. It’s a versatile resource that can be used for deeper learning or easily adapted for sub plans.

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