Idaho Social Studies 9-12.WC.24

Social StudiesGrades 9–12Foundations of Western Civilization

The Standard

Explain how Charlemagne reshaped and redefined medieval Europe.

Idaho Content Standards: K-12 Social Studies · The Middle Ages (c. 330 AD – 1450 AD)

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students trace how Charlemagne brought much of western Europe under one ruler through conquest. They explain how his ties to the pope, his local officials, and his support for schools changed life in the empire.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can locate Charlemagne’s empire on a map and name the Saxon campaigns as an example of expansion. They can explain how his coronation in 800 linked his rule to the church.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think Charlemagne ruled all of Europe or created the modern countries shown on a map. They may think his coronation began his reign or that his empire stayed united after his death.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: How did Charlemagne change western Europe through conquest and through his relationship with the pope? Give one specific example of each.

Lesson moves

Give pairs maps of western Europe in 750 and 814; have them shade Charlemagne’s territory and circle land he gained.
Ask students to write two sentences answering: Why did the pope crown Charlemagne in 800, and what did each leader gain?
Race to sort cards labeled Saxon wars, counts, palace school, and papal coronation into conquest, government, learning, and church.
Compare a map of Charlemagne’s empire with today’s France and Germany; list two overlaps and one difference.

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