Venice: The Floating City of Trade, Art, and Innovation
An Eight-Week Exploration of Culture, Creativity, and Connection
This unit invited students to float through the magical waterways of Venice—exploring its rich history, vibrant traditions, and innovative spirit. Through hands-on activities and immersive learning, students discovered what makes this Italian city a cultural jewel of the world.
 
Week 1: History of Discovery and Anthropology
Students began with the powerful trade routes of Venice, learning how the city became a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and global exchange during the height of the Venetian Empire.
 
Week 2: Natural Science
Exploring Venice’s iconic canals and gondolas, students investigated how the city’s unique structure floats on water. Lessons included engineering concepts, environmental challenges, and adaptations to rising tides.
 
Week 3: Language Arts
The Bridge of Sighs provided the backdrop for literary analysis and storytelling. Students dove into the legends and symbolism behind the famous landmark, writing their own reflective narratives inspired by its history.
 
Week 4: Venice’s Sport
Fútbol fever took over as students explored Italy’s love for the sport, learning about teamwork, cultural pride, and how sports serve as a unifying tradition throughout Europe.
Week 5: Invention
Students got a taste of sweet innovation as they learned about Venice’s legacy of glasswork and created their own glass candy—a playful, edible take on Venetian craftsmanship.
 
Week 6: The Arts
In celebration of Carnivale, students painted watercolor canals, designed Venetian masks, and learned about the theatrical and artistic roots of this colorful celebration.
 
Week 7: Cuisine
Culinary traditions came to life as students sampled and recreated cicchetti, Venice’s take on small bites and tapas, while learning about the role of food in social connection.
 
Week 8: Current Events
The unit concluded with a debate and bridge-building challenge. Students discussed modern challenges facing Venice, like tourism and climate change, while constructing bridges of their own—both physical and conversational.
 
This unit was a gondola ride through history, science, language, food, and culture—inviting students to not only learn about Venice, but to see themselves as citizens of the world, ready to cross bridges and build connections wherever they go.