April 2 - April 5

As we are winding down traditional Greek Mythology, we are ramping up for a modern twist: The Lightning Thief.  Starting on Monday, students engaged in numerous pre-reading activities designed to encourage collaboration and background knowledge.  Yesterday, students had written (no talking allowed) discussions involving the following questions:

1. Do you believe in anything that science can’t prove -- such as magic, or ghosts, or creatures like the Loch Ness monster?  Why or why not?
2. You have been granted one magical item of your choice. What would this item be, and what power would it have? Explain your choice.
3. Have you ever learned something in school you were absolutely sure you would never use in your life? Explain.

Each question was placed in the middle of a large sheet of butcher paper and students posed questions, wrote reactions, and responded to others using their favorite markers.  It was amazing how intense discussions and arguments could be while the room remained silent!

Students are also beginning the process of writing their own myths.  Each myth needs to explain a natural phenomenon and contain a Greek god or goddess.  Beyond that, students have the freedom to use their creative juices.  It will be exciting to read their original myths