Autumn 2
How Have Structures Influenced Our Lives?
This term, Year 4 will embark on an exciting cross-curricular project exploring the question:
“What was the impact of the Roman invasion on Britain?”
Through this project, children will learn about the Roman Empire and its lasting influence on Britain, particularly in terms of architecture and engineering. They will discover how Roman structures shaped our towns, cities, and culture, and how evidence of this history can still be seen today.
What Will Children Learn?
- History: The Roman Empire, its invasion of Britain, and its impact on society.
- Art: How to create 3D structures and develop artistic techniques using different media.
- Design & Technology: How to design, plan, and build a model inspired by Roman architecture, applying skills in construction and evaluation.
- Maths: Reading Roman numerals and understanding how number systems evolved over time.
Key Experiences
- Investigating Roman roads, villas, baths, and forts.
- Visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace
- Creating a model of a Roman-inspired structure and presenting it to an audience.
- Developing oracy skills through debates and presentations about the legacy of Roman Britain.
Why This Matters
This project helps children understand that Britain’s identity has been shaped by many cultures over time. They will explore themes of identity, diversity, and legacy, learning how historical events influence modern life.
How You Can Support at Home
- Talk about Roman influences you notice in everyday life (e.g., Roman numerals on clocks).
- Visit local historical sites or museums.
- Share stories and books about Roman Britain, such as Queen of Darkness by Tony Bradman or Empire’s End by Leila Rasheed.
The Final Outcome
By the end of the term, children will:
- Present a model of a Roman structure they have designed and built.
- Explain how Roman architecture and engineering have influenced Britain today.
- Showcase their learning through an oral presentation to peers (and possibly parents!).
