The Spread of the Renaissance in Europe

Social Studies Middle School The Spread of the Renaissance in Europe
Students learn about the development of the printing press in the 15th century and compare life before and after its invention. Then they explore the role of the printing press in advancing the ideas of humanism that flourished during the Renaissance and explain some of humanism’s main ideas. Finally, students consider a modern technology that has influenced life in a similar way to the printing press.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Here are the teacher pack items for The Spread of the Renaissance in Europe:

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Overview

In this experience, students learn about the development of the printing press in the 15th century and compare life before and after its invention. Then they explore the role of the printing press in advancing the ideas of humanism that flourished during the Renaissance and explain some of humanism’s main ideas. Finally, students consider a modern technology that has influenced life in a similar way to the printing press.

Objectives

  • Recognize the role of the printing press in the dissemination of Renaissance ideas.
  • Describe the growth and spread of Renaissance humanism.


Have you ever read a story from long ago or looked at a painting from long ago and thought, “Wow, that is really good! That makes total sense to me in my world today”? It’s not an uncommon human cycle to return to the best parts of earlier times to learn something new. In this experience, you will learn about how that happened in the Renaissance.

Objectives

  • Recognize the role of the printing press in the dissemination of Renaissance ideas.
  • Describe the growth and spread of Renaissance humanism.


Etching of two people working at a table with other people in the background

Take a careful look at the image.


What is in this image? What are the men doing?


Explain to students that this is an image of the earliest type of printing press.


Imagine what your life would be like without any printed materials—books, magazines, or restaurant menus! Write a sentence that describes why printed materials are important.

Post your answer

Discuss students’ responses.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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The Complete List of Learning Experiences in The Renaissance and Reformation Unit.
Social Studies Middle School Cultural Activity of the Renaissance
Cultural Activity of the Renaissance
Social Studies Middle School The Origins of the Reformation
The Origins of the Reformation
Reopening of the Silk Road
Reopening of the Silk Road
Social Studies Middle School The Influence of the Reformation and the Counter-Reformation
The Influence of the Reformation and the Counter-Reformation
Social Studies Middle School The Spread of the Renaissance in Europe
The Spread of the Renaissance in Europe
Social Studies Middle School The Origins of the Renaissance
The Origins of the Renaissance
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