Materials

• Blank map of the Roman Empire
• Current world map
• Overhead projector (optional)

Instructional Activities

1. Review content covered to this point in the unit.
   
   
2. Explain that when a country loses power, its territory is taken over by other countries or leaders. Examples may include the Austro-Hungarian Empire following World War I, the Soviet Union following the collapse of the communist government, or Yugoslavia following its collapse. On a world map point out the present-day territory previously controlled by the countries. Discuss the current status of the territory previously controlled by these countries.
   
   
3. Remind students of the previous session’s discussion of the collapse of the Roman Empire.
   
   
4. Put the notes below on the board or overhead. (Pause following each note to explain it to the students and check for understanding. Point out all geographic areas concerned on a map, or distribute a blank map for students to shade with the shift in the Roman Empire.)
   
   Division of the Roman Empire
   • Move of the capital by Constantine from Rome to Byzantium, renaming it Constantinople
   • Survival of Western Roman Empire until 476 A.D., when it ceased to have a Roman Emperor
   • Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire)
   
   
5. Prepare students for the review coming in the next class session.