The purpose of this learning experience is to immerse sixth-grade students in the art of mythmaking, allowing them to explore the enduring qualities of myths and heroes across cultures. Through the lens of the Hero’s Journey, students will not only analyze ancient texts but also craft their own personal narratives, integrating diverse cultural perspectives and reflecting their understanding of societal values and challenges. This expedition invites students to actively engage with world literature and history, fostering a deeper understanding of human experiences and self-knowledge through creative expression and critical reflection.
Learning goals
Students will create their own myth, embodying the Hero’s Journey, to understand how myths reflect cultural values and societal challenges. They will research ancient civilizations to draw connections between historical contexts and their own cultural heritage in storytelling. Throughout this process, students will engage in self-directed learning and critical reflections, using the myth-making experience to deepen their sense of identity, belonging, and understanding of the timeless nature of myths. Working collaboratively, they will refine their narratives through peer feedback, focusing on clarity, thematic depth, and personal voice in the final project presentation.
Standards
[Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.6.7 - Compare and contrast the experience of reading a story, drama, or poem to listening to or viewing an audio, video, or live version of the text, including contrasting what they "see" and "hear" when reading the text to what they perceive when they listen or watch.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will create a personal myth inspired by ancient legends and their own cultural backgrounds, expressed through chosen mediums such as written narratives, illustrated books, dramatic performances, or digital storytelling projects. These creative products will demonstrate their comprehension of myth characteristics and the Hero’s Journey, blending researched insights with personal experiences and perspectives. In small-group workshops, students will refine and revise their projects, ensuring thematic depth and clarity before sharing their stories in a Zoom exhibition.
Launch
Begin the lesson with a "Mythical Journey Exhibition" where students can explore various mythological exhibits set up in different areas of the classroom or digital space. Each exhibit will represent a different culture's myth, complete with artifacts, visuals, and audio excerpts. As they explore, students should take notes and ask questions to fuel their curiosity and understanding of how myths reflect societal values and challenges. After the exploration, facilitate a discussion where students share initial observations and insights into how these myths relate to their own experiences and community values.
Exhibition
Students will present their final projects live on Zoom during class time, showcasing their personal myths in various creative forms. Each student will take the stage, sharing their chosen medium—whether a written narrative, illustrated book, dramatic performance, or digital storytelling. Through these presentations, students will celebrate their unique heroes’ journeys while connecting with peers and expressing the diverse cultural influences in their stories. This exhibition will foster a sense of belonging and identity, highlighting each participant's creative process and reflective insights gained throughout the expedition.
