Students are actively engaging the question "what does it mean to be human?" as we read, listen to, and discuss Greek myths.  We've followed heroes on fantastical journeys, tracking the changes in their characters as they overcome obstacles to reach their destinies. Themes of courage, loyalty, wisdom, and nobility collide with the cracks of human flaws and emotions evident in mortals and immortals alike.  These allow young readers to recognize themselves and their own life journeys mirrored in these mythological tales.  We are all "perfectly imperfect" beings!

This week, students will peer conference their Persephone/Hades diary entries and work on revisions.  They will then engage the writing process to craft an essay relating to the story of "Theseus and the Minotaur", the culmination of two days of work last week in which groups of students analyzed a section of the story and presented their findings to the class. (Instructions linked below)

This week we welcome student teacher Neil Vercellin who is coming to us from the Collaborative for Educational Services.  Neil has a background in film as well as a preliminary teaching license.  I am very excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with a new teacher!

Homework:

Tues:  finish ORGANIZER (only) for Theseus essay; diary final due Thurs. (typed)
Wed:  diary due Thurs.
Thurs:  finish essay DRAFT
Fri:  final Theseus essay due Tues. 1/24
       Rd. 2 stories: "Prometheus" and "Pandora" - due Tuesday 1/24

Theseus Essay Writing

Essay Conferencing Form