History·Ancient Greece & Rome·conceptual
Roman Republic and Empire
Explain how Rome was first governed as a republic — with elected consuls, a powerful Senate, and a distinction between patricians and plebeians — before becoming an empire ruled by emperors like Augustus (who brought peace, the Pax Romana) and Nero, and compare republican government with Athenian direct democracy
Suggested ages 9–11
Evidence of understanding
- Describe the Roman Republic's structure: consuls, Senate, patricians, and plebeians
- Explain how Rome changed from a republic to an empire under Augustus
- Compare Athenian direct democracy (citizens vote on decisions) with Roman republican government (citizens elect representatives)
Assessment prompt
Could Roman Republic and Empire explain the difference between the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire, and compare how Rome and Athens each let people have a say in government?
Standards alignment
No external standards are linked to this topic.