Summer Olymics Day 1 -Olympics History

Olympics History

Read:  page 5-16 in Olympics by Dennis B. Fradin

Discuss: The first ancient Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC (about 3,000 years ago). There was just one race called a stade (180 meters long). Then more and more events were added. The Games were dedicated to the Olympian gods and were staged on the ancient plains of Olympia, Greece. The official award ceremony for the Olympics would take place on the last day of the Games, at the elevated vestibule of the temple of Zeus. In a loud voice, the herald would announce the name of the Olympic winner, his father's name, and his homeland. Then, a wreath made of sacred olive tree would be placed on the winner's head. (Find Olympia, Greece on the globe).

Comprehension Questions:

1. How many competitions were at the first ancient Olympic Games? One race called a stade.
2. What is the name of the city were the ancient Olympic Games took place? Olympia, Greece
3. How often were the ancient Olympic Games? Every 4 years.

Who Were The Ancient Greeks?

We used Who Were The Ancient Greeks? on pages 10-11 from this download.

 

The Origin of the Ancient Olympic Games

We used The Origin of the Ancient Olympic Games on pages 14-15 from this download.

 Ancient Olympic Stadium

We used Ancient Olympic Stadium on pages 20-21 of this download.

Ancient Olympic Prizes

We used Ancient Olympic Prizes on pages 22-23 of this download.

Olympic Laurel Wreath Crown

Discuss: The athletes in the ancient Olympic games didn't receive medals, instead they received a laurel wreath crown made of olive leaves and the glory of the fans.

Materials:

• Paper plate
• Green and light green construction paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Ribbon

Directions:

1. Cut the center out of a large paper plate.
   
2. Cut about a half inch out of the inside of the ring, so it fits the head better. (or as much as you need)
   
3. Cut many simple leaves from green and light green paper.
   
4. Start gluing the leaves at the back end of the paper plate rim alternating colors down one side.
   
5. Continue gluing the leaves together past the ends of the paper plate a few inches.  
   
6. Tie a ribbon around the back of the wreath.