Athens & Sparta

Essential Question

How are the city-states of Athens and Sparta similar? How are they different?

Sparta and Athens

Sparta and Athens

During this time there were several Greek-city states all across Greece. A city-state is a city that with its surrounding territory forms an independent country. However, the two most powerful city-states were Athens and Sparta. While they were both polytheistic, powerful, and spoke Greek the way of life in these two cities were very different.

Activity 1: NEWSELA "Ancient Greece: The rise of city-states Athens and Sparta"

Sign into Newsela and read the article "Ancient Greece: The rise of city-states Athens and Sparta." Remember to annotate the article as you read and complete the quiz once you have finished reading.

Discussion Questions

  • How are Athens and Sparta similar?

  • What is Spartan society like?

  • What is Athenian society like?

  • Would you rather live in Sparta or Athens? Why?

Activity 2: What are the similarities and differences between Sparta and Athens?

Using the information from this lesson, answer the questions in a thinking map. Complete this assignment digitally or on paper. It will be collected in your portfolio.

Extension Activities