Roman Numerals

The Romans developed their number system for use in trade and commerce. It is still used today for some specialized purposes, such as in publishing dates or rulers who share the same name (Queen Elizabeth II). When using this system, placing any smaller number in front of any larger number indicates subtraction (IV is 4). Placing any smaller number after any larger number indicates addition (XI is 11).

Look over the Roman numerals chart below to become familiar with these numbers. You can print it out. Then play the matching game at the second Web site to test your knowledge of Roman numerals.

When finished, create a 2-column chart on a piece of paper. In the left column, list the items below. In the right column, write the number and Roman numeral for each item.

Items:
1. Today's date (Month, Day, Year)
2. Boys in the class
3. Girls in the class
4. Books in your desk
5. Windows in the classroom

At the bottom of your chart, add up the total number of items 2 - 5 and write this as a Roman numeral as well.

  1. Roman Numeral Chart
  2. Matching Game
Lesson Name:   Roman Numerals
Objective:   Students will read over a chart about Roman Numerals and play a matching game. They will then make a 2-column chart recording the number of items indicated in Roman numerals.
Grade:   (3-5) Lesson Login:   roman_numbers-a
Additional disciplines:
Computer Skills
ELA
Materials:
Computer with Internet access
Paper and pen
Printer
For AIS instruction, this lesson has been modified as follows:
In the directions, the number of items in the chart has been reduced to five. This change has been reflected in the total.
Click here for the original version of this lesson.