The Fall of Rome: Major Events Leading to the End of the Western Empire - Reading Comprehension Worksheet with Primary Source

Explore the dramatic decline of the Western Roman Empire with this comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet. This resource delves into the major factors contributing to Rome's fall, from economic troubles and political corruption to barbarian invasions and the final blow dealt by the deposition of Romulus Augustulus in 476 CE. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how internal and external pressures led to one of the most significant events in world history.

This worksheet includes:

• Detailed Reading Passage: A thorough exploration of the causes behind the fall of the Western Roman Empire, including economic struggles, political mismanagement, barbarian invasions, and the empire’s division.
• Primary Source Analysis: A reflective passage by St. Jerome on the emotional impact of the sack of Rome, offering students the chance to engage with historical perspectives.
• Multiple-Format Questions: Includes multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short-answer questions to assess comprehension and promote critical thinking.
• Answer Key: A complete answer key is provided to streamline grading and feedback.
• Flexible Use: Perfect for deeper learning, classroom discussions, homework, or as a sub plan.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will analyze the key events and issues that contributed to the decline and fall of the Western Roman Empire.
• Students will examine primary source material to understand the emotional and social impact of Rome’s fall.
• Students will explore how external pressures, such as barbarian invasions, accelerated the collapse of the empire.

Recommended Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a primary or secondary source and provide an accurate summary of key events.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.9: Integrate information from diverse sources into a cohesive understanding of an event or issue.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-12.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Perfect For:

• World History
• Ancient History
• Social Studies classes for grades 9-12

This resource offers an engaging and informative look into the collapse of the Roman Empire, making it a valuable tool for teaching critical thinking and historical analysis. It’s versatile enough to be used as part of a broader unit or as a standalone resource for sub plans.

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