The Sacking of Rome: Barbarian Invasions and the Fall of the Western Roman Empire – Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Uncover the dramatic final chapters of the Western Roman Empire with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet focused on the Sacking of Rome and the barbarian invasions that led to the empire’s downfall. This resource takes students through the significant sacks of Rome by the Visigoths, Vandals, and Ostrogoths, while examining the broader economic, political, and military factors that contributed to the collapse of the once-mighty empire. Using primary sources like St. Jerome’s reflections on the sack of Rome, this worksheet fosters deep understanding and critical analysis of a pivotal period in world history.

What’s Included:

• Informative Reading Passage: A comprehensive exploration of the sackings of Rome in 410, 455, and 546 CE, detailing the impact of these invasions on the Western Roman Empire.
• Primary Source Analysis: Analyze St. Jerome’s reaction to the sack of Rome, helping students connect with the emotional and psychological effects of these catastrophic events.
• Varied Question Types: Includes multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short-answer questions to assess comprehension and encourage critical thinking.
• Answer Key: A complete answer key for easy grading and assessment.

Why This Resource is Perfect for Your Classroom:

• Deeper Learning: This worksheet delves into the causes and consequences of the sackings of Rome, helping students understand the complex forces behind the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
• Versatile Usage: Perfect for in-class assignments, homework, or as a part of sub plans, this resource is adaptable to fit a variety of teaching needs.
• Critical Thinking Skills: By analyzing primary sources and connecting historical events to larger themes, students will develop skills in historical interpretation and critical analysis.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the causes and effects of the sackings of Rome by barbarian groups and their significance in the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
• Evaluate the economic, political, and military factors that weakened Rome and left it vulnerable to invasions.
• Understand the impact of key barbarian leaders and events that shaped the final days of the Roman Empire.

Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.9: Analyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.

Ideal For:

• World History
• Ancient Civilizations
• Social Studies

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