Unit 4

In this unit, we will explore our first "classical" civilization, Ancient Greece. Though today Greece is a united country, in ancient times there was no such thing as the country of "Greece." Instead, individual city-states (such as Athens and Sparta) inhabited the Balkan Peninsula, and each city-state thought of themselves as an independent nation. Collectively, these city-states called themselves "Hellas." We will examine how the relationships between these city-states helped to spark many of the achievements that have been passed down to us from the Ancient Greeks.

Unit 4 Guiding Questions

• • How did the geography of the Balkan Peninsula shape the development of the Greek city-states?

  • What were the key differences and similarities among the Greek city-states?

  • Why did Athens develop direct democracy?

  • How did the Athenian form of government affect the government of the United States?

  • How did the achievements of the Greek city-states affect future cultures?

  • Why did the conflicts between the Greeks facilitate their ultimate downfall?

  • What was the legacy of Alexander the Great?

Assessments in this unit:

• • Unit 4 Test

  • Athens vs. Sparta Project

  • Quizzes

  • Homework