The Writing on the Walls ― Discovering Medieval and Ancient Graffiti for Middle School Social Studies

The Writing on the Walls: Discovering Medieval and Ancient Graffiti for Middle School Social Studies is an activity book for grades 68 to supplement the study of the cultures of medieval England, ancient Pompeii, and ancient Athens. By looking at these cultures through the lens of graffiti, students learn about the everyday concerns and daily life of people who lived in the past. This up-close look at history will invigorate the classroom and engage and challenge students to identify with the past. For example, a piece of graffiti from ancient Pompeii that praises a "heartthrob" gladiator gets students to reflect on how they express feelings toward their own celebrity crushes. Questions throughout the text and activities at the end of chapters encourage students to reflect on the material and assume the role of archaeologist/researcher. Reading lists provided at the end of chapters extend learning and invite students to continue exploring ancient cultures.