Lesson plan based on Amphora

Describe modern—day legends and compare them to ancient legends.

Skills and Focus: Discussion, Cultural Comparisons, Writing

Subject Area: English Language Arts

Thematic Connection: Myths and Legends, Connecting Past and Present

Grade Level: Elementary School

Time Needed: 50-minutes

Objectives

• Understand the place of the legend of Herakles in ancient Greek life.

• Compare ancient and modern legends.

Instructional Materials Needed

Story: What Story Is Shown?

Activity

Step 1: Begin by discussing the concept of legends. Be sure students understand that a legend can be either a person who accomplished some remarkable feat or an event of longstanding significance.

Step 2: After watching What Story Is Shown?, discuss what the students already know about the character of Herakles.

Critical Thinking Ask students to

• explain why the ancient Greeks painted an image of him onto an amphora.

• describe Herakles most admirable characteristics.

Step 3: Work with students to generate a list of contemporary legends. Some of the legends should be people and some should be events. Discuss with students how these people and events fulfill the requirements of a legend.

Goals

This activity meets Illinois State Goal 4: Listen and speak effectively in a variety of situations.

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