Materials

• Teacher-prepared map handout, based on instructions in “Byzantine Map Practice” (Attachment A); one copy of handout per student
• Atlas or text

Instructional Activities

1. Remind students that even though the western Roman Empire had fallen by the hands of the barbarians (Germanic invaders), the eastern Roman Empire had an excellent site and situation that enabled it to last for centuries.
   
2. Review the concepts of site and situation. Have students explain the site of Constantinople and its situation.
   
   
3. Distribute the handout developed according to the instructions in “Byzantine Map Practice” (Attachment A). Have students to complete the handout.
   
   
4. Monitor student progress and provide assistance as needed.
   
   
5. Have students state two reasons that Constantinople was an ideal location for a capital.