Read the text about Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece was one of the most influential civilizations in world history. It developed around 800 BCE in southeastern Europe, on the rocky coasts and islands of the Mediterranean Sea. Because the land was mountainous, Greeks lived in small, independent city-states rather than one large empire. Two of the most famous city-states were Athens and Sparta.
Athens is remembered for its achievements in art, philosophy, and government. It was the birthplace of democracy, a system in which free male citizens could vote on important issues. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle questioned the nature of knowledge, justice, and the universe. Artists and architects built temples, statues, and theaters that are still admired today.
Sparta, by contrast, focused on military strength. Boys began training to be soldiers at a very young age, and the society valued discipline, bravery, and loyalty. Women in Sparta had more freedom than in Athens, but the culture was centered on preparing for war.
The Greeks also made lasting contributions to sports, literature, and science. The Olympic Games, first held in 776 BCE, honored the god Zeus and brought athletes together from across Greece. Writers like Homer told epic stories such as the Iliad and the Odyssey. Scientists and mathematicians like Archimedes and Pythagoras studied the natural world and developed ideas that are still taught today.
Today, many people admire Ancient Greece for its creativity and ideas. Some believe it shaped much of Western civilization. The influence of Greek democracy, philosophy, and art can still be seen in modern governments, schools, and culture around the world.
Task:
Read the text. Decide if each statement is a Fact or an Opinion.
- Ancient Greece developed around 800 BCE in southeastern Europe.
- Athens was the birthplace of democracy.
- Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle were important Greek thinkers.
- Sparta was the best city-state in Ancient Greece.
- The Olympic Games honored the god Zeus.
- Homer wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey.
- Greek culture is more interesting than Roman culture.
- Ancient Greece shaped much of Western civilization.
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