Alexander the Great - History 1&2, Explorers and Trailblazers

The Peloponnesian War, which weakened the Greek city-states, allowed King Philip II of Macedonia to conquer Greece. When he died 2 years later, his son Alexander took over. Alexander was intelligent and power-hungry. He quickly extended his empire eastward through the Persian empire, which included Egypt. He was welcomed as a hero for rescuing the Egyptians from the Persians, was crowned pharaoh, and founded the city of Alexandria. Greek culture and language spread during Alexander’s conquests. We call this culture “Hellenistic.”

In class activities:

• Listened to stories of Alexander's childhood & conquests
• Made our own Gordian knots
• Learned about the many cities named Alexandria
• Discussed Hellenistic culture
• Mapped the expansion of Alexander's empire
• Brainstormed possible elective topics (take a look at their great ideas!!! - if you are planning a future unit-study, there is fantastic inspiration here)
  
  
  
  

Optional lesson extension activities:

• Review the life of Alexander the Great with this simple powerpoint
• Go to the library and read more about Alexander's life in books like this one
• Play the game "Risk" and as you battle to conquer the world discuss the role of pride in the lives of leaders. 

Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday!!!

Assignment due 12/1:

• Read history cards NT18-21, OT 32
• Practice your timeline