6th Grade Summer Reading
History
Mr. Carpenter
Happy summer! I hope you all enjoy the long days and sunshine.
We will begin next fall with the study of the Roman Empire. As a brief
introduction to the topic, I have selected a short reading that describes Julius
Caesar’s conquests in the Alexandrian Wars. The passages describe his assault on
Northern Egypt with fairly detailed battle strategies. Caesar assumed the role of
dictator largely due to his military prowess. Hopefully some of his writings might
give you a more detailed insight to why he was so successful as a general.
The reading is fairly dense and difficult, so as a practice exercise, I would like
you each to choose 10 vocabulary words from the text that you are unfamiliar with,
find their definitions and use them in a new sentence that displays the meaning
clearly. This exercise should enhance your comprehension of the text and provide us
all with a few new words as we enter the study of Roman civilization.
When you finish the reading and vocabulary, I ask that you write a short
response paper (1-page, double-spaced, size 12 Times New Roman font) describing
your thoughts on Caesar’s military skills based on what you have read. The topic is
fairly open for interpretation. You can describe the tactics he used, his ability to
lead, his resources, etc. I want to hear what you think!
I have attached the reading. Please bring your response paper and the
vocabulary list/sentences you make to the first class.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all this fall! GOOD LUCK!