Oklahoma Social Studies AWH.C.9.5.B
The Standard
- AWH.C.9.5
- Analyze the Latin West following the fall of the Roman Empire.
Describe the rise of Frankish kings, including the roles of Charles Martel and Charlemagne, and the establishment of the Holy Roman Empire.
Oklahoma Academic Standards for Social Studies (2026) · AWH.C.9.5
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Trace how Frankish leaders gained power after the fall of western Rome. Explain how Charles Martel strengthened the ruling family, how Charlemagne expanded its territory, and how later rulers claimed the title of emperor.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can put Clovis, Charles Martel, Pepin, Charlemagne, and Otto I in order. They can identify Martel as mayor of the palace, not a king, and distinguish Charlemagne’s coronation in 800 from Otto’s in 962.
Common Misconceptions
- Students often call Charles Martel a king because he held power. They may also mistake Charlemagne’s coronation in 800 for the start of the later Holy Roman Empire under Otto I.
How to Assess It
- On an exit ticket, have students order Martel, Pepin, Charlemagne, and Otto I. Ask them to explain the difference between the coronations of 800 and 962.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs five leader cards and a blank timeline; have them place Clovis, Martel, Pepin, Charlemagne, and Otto I in order.
Read a short account of Charlemagne’s coronation, then ask: What might the pope and Charlemagne each have gained?
Play Who Am I? with clues for Martel, Pepin, Charlemagne, and Otto I; ask students to correct any wrong guesses.
Show a modern map beside a map of Charlemagne’s empire; have students name two present-day countries within its borders.
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