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Roman numerals pretty much hit their peak in the United States many years ago. You rarely see them nowadays; other than on the face of a watch or a clock. Because of that, they’re not typically taught as a standard representation of numbers although they occasionally seem to pop up in a reading, history, and the Superbowl. If you want some activities to help introduce or reinforce these numerical representations, then bookmark this page so you can refer back for great ideas to incorporate into your lesson plans!

1. Create Your Own Roman Coins

Your learners will love this hands-on craft activity to make their very own Roman coins! Mix up a batch of salt dough using the simple recipe then let your kiddies carve some roman numerals into them. Set them aside to dry then add some color with paints!

Learn More: Dazzle Workshops.

2. Escape Room

Crack the Code is an escape room that is perfect for your unit on Greek and Roman history. This fun activity requires kids to work through a myriad of code-cracking fun that includes Roman numerals. 

Learn More: Teachers Pay Teachers

3. Intro Video

A simple video is a perfect way to introduce many topics. Khan Academy has an incredibly helpful introductory video that answers a majority of questions kids may when they first see Roman numerals. 

Learn More: Khan Academy

4. Clock Practice

The most common Roman numerals we see in modern times occur on a clock or a watch. Have kids build a clock and then practice their time-reading skills and recognition of Roman numerals with this clock that they can “set” to the correct time; as chosen by you or by a drawing card.

Learn More: Learning Ideas

5. Get Sensory

Another fun way to reinforce the concept or give a quick quiz is to have students create the numerals out of random items. Gummy bears are an edible tool, while toothpicks are cheap and easy! 

Learn More: Learning Ideas

6. Flap Book

Have students create a flap book that shows the Roman numeral on the outside and the correct number on the inside. Kids can then use these books to give each other numeral quizzes or simply practice memorizing the information.

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7. Partner Practice

In partners, children can take turns representing the Roman numerals by first using counters and then challenging their partner to create the Roman numeral version. Recording the numerical version in a journal or on a sheet of paper further reinforces what they are learning.

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8. Roman Numeral Oh Nuts

This Roman numeral game is a fun way to get kids practicing without even realizing that they are working! The goal of the game is to collect as many Roman numeral cards as possible by correctly representing them with the numeral cards. But, watch out! If you draw an “Oh Nuts!” you’ll lose your stack!

Learn More: Games for Learning

9. Roman Numerals Bingo

This bingo game turns into a simple recognition game as kids compete to get enough numbers in a row to yell, “BINGO”! Have a fun prize on hand to really amp up the competition!

Learn More: Math Bingo

10. Roman Numeral Craft

Have kids create their own game cards to help them memorize Roman numerals. They will use colored index cards and a variety of Washi tape to create the numbers. When they’re done, they’ll have their own set of practice or game cards to utilize at home or school.

Learn More: And Next Comes ESL

11. Addition Practice for Understanding

If kids can figure out the Roman numeral-to-number correlation, this next step of putting the numbers together in this format can easily help them understand how to write larger numbers. Have students practice using this format and a variety of numerals to help them better understand. 

Learn More: Scholastic

12. Addition and Subtraction Practice

This Roman numerals resource is one you will want to make sure you introduce after kids really have their numerals down. Have kids practice adding and subtracting after they “translate” the Roman numerals to regular numbers.

Learn More: Deceptively Educational

13. Lego Stamping Roman Numerals

What kid doesn’t love paint? Let them get their hands messy as they stamp away at creating Roman numerals using paint and Lego. It’s a simple, yet fun and effective way to get kids to memorize their numerals.

Learn More: And Next Comes ESL