The language in “Julius Caesar" is very intimidating to students. Be sure to provide vocabulary lists for each scene assigned in "Julius Caesar.” Since some words are archaic and no longer used, students will still find the play more accessible if they have vocabulary guides to assist them. In addition, allow students to play with Shakespearean vocabulary. Have students create Shakespearean insults using language from a variety of plays and ask students to develop their own skits using Shakespearean language. In order to familiarize themselves with the names in Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar," permit each student to choose a name that they wish to be called for the remainder of the unit.
Asking students to write about what they read is a positive way to reinforce reading skills. While students are reading “Julius Caesar,” provide reading questions that will encourage them to look more closely at the play. If students are in high school, have them annotate while they read, which will push them to ask questions and make connections and observations while reading. Annotation and questions will make class discussions richer. In addition, because the play focuses on speeches and dialogue, ask students to write their own version of Mark Antony’s famous soliloquy from Act 3.
Students often enjoy learning about ancient Roman history and culture. Reading "Julius Caesar" is a wonderful way to bring history into the classroom. Provide students with background information on the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire. Discuss historical figures such as Pompey, Caesar, Brutus and Mark Antony. Students can re-enact the Roman senate and debate whether or not Caesar would have been a true threat to the Roman Republic. Providing students with the history surrounding “Julius Caesar” will also allow them to recognize and discuss how the assassination of Caesar led to Octavian and the transition into the Roman Empire.
Shakespearean plays were meant to be performed, not simply read. Having students perform scenes from “Julius Caesar” is one of the best ways to enhance students’ understanding of the play. Allow students to choose the characters they want to play and encourage them to bring in costumes and props to help them perform. After finishing “Julius Caesar,” ask students to modify a scene by changing the dialogue, setting or outcome. Have the class perform their rewritten scenes. As a culminating project, schedule a field trip to see a Shakespearean play with your class.