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National Roman Civilization Exam
The National Roman Civilization Exam (NRCE) tests students' knowledge of ancient Roman society. This is a test on the history and culture of the ancient Romans from 753 BC to the end of the reign of Constantine the Great.
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Competition Overview
Eligibility
This exam is generally meant for grades 6-12, but students of any grade level are allowed to participate.
Exam Cost
- $25
- $20 for ACL members; $15 for NJCL Chapter Sponsors.
- Online exams: $7; $6 for ACL members
Registration Timeline
September 1 – October 25
Examination Window
November 1 – December 10
Competition Details
1. Competition Format
Students will answer 25 questions on Roman history and 25 questions on Roman civilization (5 difficult, 10 medium, 10 easy for each).
Question breakdown:
- Approximately 25 questions on Roman history and 25 questions on Roman civilization (5 difficult, 10 medium, 10 easy for each)
- Roman History: 5 Monarchy, 10 Republic, 10 Empire
- Roman Civilization: clothing; living arrangement; food & meals; Roman theater; gladiatorial games; chariot races; religion; holidays and festivals; political and public career; roads; military; baths; geography; Roman slavery; travel & communication. (No more than 2 questions per topic).
Exam Date:
- Exam Registration: September 1 – October 25
- Exam Administration: November 1 – December 10
2. Study Guide and Resources
Study Guide by Level: Novice | Intermediate | Advanced
Resources:
- A Handbook to Life in Ancient Rome (TMRC-B0461) by Adkins and Adkins (ISBN 0195123328)
- A History of Rome to A.D. 565 by Sinnigen and Boak (ISBN 0024108006)
- Livy: Stories of Rome translated by Roger Nichols (ISBN 0521228166)
- A History of Rome by Cary and Scullard (ISBN 0312383959)
- History of the Roman People by Yeo and Ward (ISBN 0130384801)
- The Oxford Classical Dictionary, 2nd and 3rd editions
- The Private Life of the Romans by Johnston (ISBN 1410203506) (ONLINE) (PDF)
- The Romans: From Village to Empire (TMRC-B0456) by Boatwright, Gargola, and Talbert (ISBN 0195118758)
3. Awards
Awards will be divided into three levels: Novice (grades 8 and below), Intermediate (9 & 10), and Advanced (11 & 12)
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Class Recommendation
Prepare to compete at the highest level