Students used their imaginations and creativity as they wrapped up their study of "Theseus and the Minotaur" with booklets illustrating the story, including group members' reviews of the tale. This week they will be treated to two myths. Today we listened to the story of "Demeter and Persephone," usually heard by children as a nature myth that explains the changing seasons. However, after discussing the characters and their actions, students have come to realize that there are many more layers to this story than first appears, and that ultimately, it shows us what it means to be human. We also viewed a slide show of paintings and sculptures portraying the characters in the story, as well as photographs of the ruins of Demeter's temple and sacred well, and Hecate's cave (thought to be an entrance to the Underworld).
Next up is the story of "Perseus and the Medusa", another hero's journey that involves both gods and monsters. Perseus is given gifts of the gods, but he must have the inner wisdom and courage to use them to his advantage. Students will engage both of this week's myths through creative writing activities. They will work on the first one, a Persephone or Hades diary, this week. Next week they will write a Perseus travelogue pamphlet.
Homework:
Monday/Tuesday: catch up on reading/charting (through the story of Demeter); if didn't finish Theseus page, need to do so!
Wednesday/Thursday: read Birth of the Twins & Artemis (due Friday); draft of diary entry due Friday for conferencing
Friday: Final draft of diary entry due Monday (PRINTED!)
Persephone/Hades Diary Instructions
Diary brainstorming organizer
