Oklahoma Social Studies AWH.C.9.1
The Standard
Describe the preservation of Greek and Roman traditions, the Code of Justinian, and the construction of the Church of the Holy Wisdom or Hagia Sophia.
Oklahoma Academic Standards for Social Studies (2026)
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Explain how Byzantines kept Greek learning and Roman law in use. Describe how Justinian gathered Roman laws into a code and ordered Hagia Sophia built as a church in Constantinople.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can give an example of a Greek or Roman tradition that continued in the Byzantine Empire. They can explain what Justinian's Code contained and identify Hagia Sophia's large dome and original use as a church.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think the use of Greek meant Byzantines abandoned all Roman traditions. They may think Justinian invented every law in his code or that Hagia Sophia was first built as a mosque.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Write three sentences. How did Byzantines use Greek learning? What did Justinian do with Roman law? What was Hagia Sophia built for, and what feature stood out?
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Use a bowl, paper strips, and a cardboard square to model Hagia Sophia's central dome and supporting arches.
Ask, 'Why might Justinian collect Roman laws and build a grand church?' Have partners give one reason for each choice.
Sort nine fact cards under Greek learning, Roman law, or Hagia Sophia, then fix one false card about Justinian's Code.
Compare photos of Hagia Sophia and a nearby church or mosque, then circle features built for group worship.
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Printable AWH.C.9.1 Worksheet
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Related Standards
- AWH.C.6.4
Describe the lasting impact of major accomplishments of the ancient Greeks.
- AWH.C.7.4
Analyze the influence of Greek civilization on Roman art, literature, society, and government.
- MWH.C.1.1.G
Describe the contributions of the Byzantine Empire, including the significance of the Justinian Code.
- AWH.C.7.7
Examine the early expansion of Christianity, including the relationship of early Christians, Jews, and officials of the Roman Empire, the relationship of Christ...
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