1. Set Focus
Pose this essential question: Why do some leaders become legendary while others fade into history?
2. List Vocabulary
Share some of the challenging vocabulary words in the article (see below). Encourage students to use context to infer meanings as they read.
- adept (p. 19)
- banished (p. 19)
- ambitious (p. 21)
- denounce (p. 21)
- outmaneuvered (p. 21)
- foe (p. 21)
3. Engage
Have students share what they know about Cleopatra. Then ask: Was Cleopatra Egyptian? How did she win the power struggle with her brother? How was she able to stay in power for nearly 20 years? Explain that students will learn the answers to these questions in the article.