Athens vs. Sparta Debate!
Which was the better city-state – Athens or Sparta? Sixth graders spent the week researching and arguing this very question and the results are in!
Spartan soldiers may have been the fiercest and toughest soldiers the world has ever known. On the other hand, Athenian citizens created and practiced one of the worlds first and purest forms of democracy. So, which was the better city-state – Athens or Sparta? Sixth graders spent the week researching and arguing this very question and the results are in!
Students were divided into groups, each of which focused on a particular topic: military strength, government, and opportunities for a good life. They researched their topic, collecting information that supported both the Athenians and Spartans. Although they may have personally decided which city-state excelled in the area they researched, they prepared to argue both sides. On the final prep day, students were assigned teams (Sparta or Athens), and without a moment to lose, they articulately argued for their city-state in front of their peer “assembly.” Votes were cast and in a surprisingly close race, both classes confirmed Athens as the victor over Sparta!
Located in Los Angeles, CA, Berkeley Hall School is a private, coeducational school for students in preschool through grade 8. Rigorous academics in a supportive atmosphere and grounded character development allow students to become fearless scholars and conscientious citizens - gain a love of learning, leadership with social responsibility, creativity with moral integrity, and self-esteem with compassion for others and the environment.