Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes

Questions to Ponder

1. How is Marcus affected by the death of his parents?
2. What is the significance of a poor harvest for the third year?
3. Who do you think was more surprised, Cradoc or Marcus, about the other's chariot expertise?
4. How did Marcus show bravery in the battle? Would you have made the same decision?
5. What do you think the rose-bush in the wine-jar symbolizes?
6. Draw Uncle Aquila. What do you think of him?
7. Why did people attend and enjoy gladiator events? Would you attend one if you could?
8. Why do you think Marcus felt a connection with the gladiator?
9. How is setting important to this story?

Freewriting

After you have pondered and discussed these questions with your teacher, choose one to complete a freewrite. If you are unfamiliar with freewriting, here are a few tips:

• Keep your pencil moving. Don’t stop. Just brain dump onto your paper.
• Have a set amount of time. Set a timer and write for the full amount of time.
• Ignore all grammar and spelling. Don’t let editing slow down the process. The goal is to get thoughts on paper. Spelling and grammar are not important in this instance.
• Pen and paper aren’t the only ways to freewrite. Feel free to type on the computer. Not only does this accomplish the task, but it builds typing skills.

Share your freewrite in the comments below.