Life in the towns

1. Starter activity. Studty the picture of a typical Roman town – Wroxeter. Most native Britons lived in small farming communities. What was better about this town? what were some potential problems

2.  Key words: basilica aqueduct amphitheatre Life in the towns  Learning objectives To judge how well organised Roman towns were To compare life in towns and the countryside To plan an ideal Roman town

3.  Your task • Read about life in Roman towns and make a list of common features in Roman towns • Note down where Roman towns were often located • In what ways was life better in towns than the country? • Can you explain why some people would still have preferred to live in the countryside in Roman times?

4.  Your task • The Romans thought it was very important to plan towns correctly. Produced a plan for a new Roman town in Kent and present it to your class in 2 minutes. • Explain the location of the town • Identify the main buildings • Explain how money will be raised to pay for the town and its government • Make a case as to how those living in the countryside will benefit from the new town

6.  Extension task • Conduct some research into Roman Canterbury. Copy of picture into your book. How similar or different was Roman Canterbury to the towns you have studied today?

7.  Homework • Finish the homework set earlier - A Roman WAG is looking to buy an expensive Roman villa in Kent. Imagine you have been asked to produce an estate agent’s brochure on Lullingstone Villa. Use your notes and your own research to explain why the property would be so desirable to a prospective Roman buyer in the fourth century AD.

8.  Plenary • Explain these words: • Amphitheatre Aqueduct Basilica • 3 benefits of living in towns • 3 problems with towns compared with life in the countryside • Why was public health so important for the Romans?