Ancient Roman engineering

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/ancient-roman-engineering

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the location?Throughout the Roman Empire, encompassing diverse geographical and climatic conditions
2. What is the key figures?Vitruvius (author of 'De Architectura'), and numerous unnamed engineers and architects
3. What were Roman aqueducts and why were they important?Roman aqueducts were big water channels that carried clean water to cities. They used gravity to move water over long distances, helping people stay healthy and build baths and fountains.
4. How did Romans make their buildings last so long?Romans used a special mix called concrete that was very strong and could be poured into shapes. This helped them build big, lasting structures like the Pantheon and many bridges.

Opus Caementicium: The Roman term for their revolutionary concrete, a strong and versatile building material.
Vitruvius: A Roman architect and engineer whose writings provide key insights into Roman building practices.
Hydraulics: The branch of engineering concerned with the movement of water and other liquids.