ABC's of Ancient Rome

Divide class into groups (3 or 4 students to a group works well). Each group will be responsible for one ABC book.
Students divide up alphabet amongst group members so that each member is responsible for certain letters. It is a group project and they certainly should help each other but all must contribute.
Students will review, research, or remember items from study of Ancient Rome that fit each letter of the alphabet and, in the manner of a picture ABC book, write a four line poem for each Roman reference. eg: N is for Nero
A Roman who wore the crown
They say he played his fiddle
While his kingdom burned to the
ground
Modification: for Learning Disabled or lower level grades, students write the information in narrative form.
The poems will be illustrated (clip art or drawing) and typed on 9x11 paper with a landscape format. The initials of the contributing student should be included at the right bottom of each page.
Students will need to know how to use a word processing program (Word) and how to download images from the internet and place them on thier page along with the writing. Leave a 2 inch left margin to accommodate binding.
Each group will design a cover and create a title for their book. An authors' page and dedication will be included.
Bind the books in your favorite manner. I use staples to hold the pages together and then cover them with duct tape.
Each student will write a short (one or two paragraphs) summary of how he or she contributed to the group book.
Assessment: accuracy of information, quality of writing, visual appeal, group dynamic, and quality of finished project.
This project is easily adapted for other subjects and many grade levels.