Year 4 - History
Athenian democracy and modern Britain
Ancient Greek civilisation: what is its most significant legacy?
Study Hub
Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils develop their understanding of historical significance whilst examining the legacy of ancient Greek civilisation. They build knowledge of various facets of ancient Greek civilisation: its philosophers, the Olympics, Athenian democracy, its language and architecture.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to compare ancient Athenian democracy with modern British democracy.
Key Notes
- The first direct democracy started in Athens; there were three main institutions of this democratic system.
- The institutions were: the Ekklesia, the Boule and the Dikasteria - these were the Assembly, the Council and the Courts.
- Only male Athenian citizens could vote, so many people living in Athens were not involved in this democracy.
- Ancient Athenian democracy has left a lasting legacy in the form of modern British democracy.
- There are similarities and differences between Ancient Athenian democracy and modern British democracy.
Vocabulary To Learn
- direct democracy: direct democracy is a form of government where the people have a direct say over how a country is run
- institutions: an organisation set up for a specific purpose, usually serving the public, is called an institution
- courts: courts are places where law cases and arguments are heard and judged on
- elect: to choose someone by voting for them to represent you in government is to elect them
- legacy: a legacy is the long-lasting impact of historical events, actions, a person or group of people
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Elections are the most fair and just way to make decisions.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.
The first direct democracy started in Athens; there were three main institutions of this democratic system. The institutions were: the Ekklesia, the Boule and the Dikasteria - these were the Assembly, the Council and the Courts.
2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'direct democracy'
direct democracy is a form of government where the people have a direct say over how a country is run.
3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.
Mistake: Elections are the most fair and just way to make decisions. Correction: Elections, when they are run honestly, are a fair and just way to make decisions. However, sometimes people can interfere with results of elections or try to sway people to vote in a certain way which means the outcome can be predictable.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 4 History guide library.