Mapping Roman Britain: Where Did the Romans Go?

Begin by displaying a map of modern Britain. Ask children to imagine they are Roman soldiers arriving in Britain. Pose a riddle: 'I built long, straight roads, strong forts, and even a wall across the country. Who am I, and why did I come to this island?' Encourage a quick brainstorm of ideas, linking to prior knowledge of Romans. Introduce the idea that today we'll be exploring where the Romans went and what they left behind on our maps.

1. Introduction to Roman Britain Map: Display a large, clear map of Roman Britain (or a modern map with Roman sites overlaid). Point out key features: Hadrian's Wall, major Roman roads (e.g., Watling Street, Fosse Way), and significant settlements (e.g., Londinium, Eboracum, Deva, Viroconium). Explain that many of these settlements grew into important modern cities.
2. Identifying Key Features: Provide each child or pair with a blank outline map of Britain and a list of key Roman sites/features (e.g., Hadrian's Wall, Londinium, Eboracum, Bath, Colchester, major roads). Using an atlas or provided Roman Britain map, children will locate and label these on their blank maps. Encourage them to use different colours for roads, walls, and settlements.
3. Discussing Geographical Significance: As children work, circulate and prompt discussion. Why do they think the Romans built forts in certain places? (e.g., near rivers for transport/defence, on hills for vantage points). Why were roads important? (e.g., moving troops, trade). Where is Hadrian's Wall located and why? (e.g., to defend against tribes from the north). Highlight the strategic importance of rivers and coasts.
4. Comparing Past and Present: Ask children to compare their Roman Britain map with a modern map. Can they identify any modern cities that were once Roman settlements? Discuss how Roman infrastructure (roads, towns) laid foundations for future development.

Project images or descriptions of key Roman sites (e.g., a picture of Hadrian's Wall, a description of the Roman Baths). Ask children to identify the site and point to its approximate location on their maps or a class map. Alternatively, play 'True or False' statements about Roman geographical choices (e.g., 'True or False: Most Roman forts were built far from water sources'). Conclude by reiterating how the Romans shaped the geography of Britain and how we can still see their legacy today.

Observe children's ability to locate and label key Roman sites and features on their maps. Listen to their contributions during discussions, noting their understanding of geographical reasons behind Roman choices. Review completed maps for accuracy and detail.

• Large display map of Roman Britain
• Blank outline maps of Britain (one per child/pair)
• Atlases or smaller reference maps of Roman Britain
• Coloured pencils/pens
• List of key Roman sites and features (e.g., Hadrian's Wall, Londinium, Eboracum, Deva, Bath, Colchester, Watling Street, Fosse Way)
• Interactive whiteboard or projector for starter/plenary
• Optional: images of Roman sites (e.g., Roman Baths, sections of Hadrian's Wall)

• History: Understanding the impact of the Roman invasion and occupation on Britain.
• Art & Design: Designing a 'Roman Britain' map with clear symbols and a key.
• Literacy: Writing short descriptions of why a Roman settlement was built in a particular location.