Greek Mythology Webquest

Greek Mythology Webquest

by yourself

Step 1
Research the stories

Step 2
Research the
gods

as a group

step 3
write your own myth

step 4
create a movie poster

introduction
Ancient Greek myths are wonderful stories that teach a lesson or explain an event in the universe. Today, science can explain where rain comes from or why the seasons change. But, many thousands of years ago humans wanted to understand the world around them, so they created gods and goddesses who ruled the universe, and invented stories that answered their questions......

Why does the sun rise and set everyday?
How do plants grow?
Who place the stars in the sky?
What is love, war, jealousy?
What is lightning and thunder?
Why does the moon change shape?
Why are some things beautiful?
How do families work?

Where does fire come from?
How did the world form?
What makes a volcano erupt?
How do birds fly?
Where does snow come from?
Why is there evil in the world?
Who makes the waves?
Why do humans have different emotions?

Task
Your job is to gain a good understanding of the different Greek myths, gods and goddesses on your own. Then, with your group, invent an original myth to teach a lesson or explain an event in the natural world. Your group will be responsible for creating the story, writing the script, performing the scenes, and making an exciting "movie" poster to advertise your production.

Process and Resources
Step 1: Research the Stories (on your own)

Kidipede Short versions of lots of myths	Storynory Read and Listen to some Greek Myths	Winged Sandals Animated stories and info. on gods
Greek Myths, Legends and Gods for Children	History For Kids Click on the chart for myths of the Gods	Mr. Donn Read and hear many Greek myths. (Also click on other links)
United Streaming Video Three popular myths (Use the usual user name and password)	Hermes and Apollo The story in a Powerpoint version	Starfall Very easy picturebook versions of Greek myths

Step 2: Research the gods and goddesses (on your own)

Mythweb Click on the different people to see who they are.	Greek Myths, Legends and Gods for Children	Thinkquest Easy to understand descriptions
Kidipede Good overview, plus links to each god	Mr. Donn Quick and easy overview of 12 most common gods. Also has other links.	The Olympian gods

Fill in a research sheet for one god or goddess

Step 3: Write your own myth (with your group)
   1. Common Characteristics of Myths (include at least 3 in your story - click on the link to see what they are)
   2. Brainstorm ideas Use this site to help you brainstorm different ideas
   3. Write the story
   4. Transform it into a script
   5. Edit and revise your rough draft
   6. Rehearse your play
   7. Get ready for the final production and videotaping

Step 4: Create a movie poster (with your group)
Look at examples of famous movie posters. What do you like about them?
Look at examples of posters from last year's students. What do you like about them?
Create your own poster with dramatic images, a great slogan, plus any appropriate credits.

Evaluation
Project Evaluation Sheet Script Checklist Movie Poster Checklist

Conclusion
Excellent job! We can't wait to see the video of your spectacular performances. You are mythical movie stars already!

Resources
Click here

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Image from: Knott, Dr. Ron. "The Parthenon and Greek Architecture ."
Fibonacci Numbers and The Golden Section in Art, Architecture and Music. 17 May 2006. 27 Aug 2006