Fabulous Fables
Introduction
Fables and Myths are found throughout the world. They appeal to both children and adults, and serve important social purposes.
Task
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Form a group of 3-4 people. |
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Choose a favorite fairy tale - like Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, or Hansel and Gretel - or chose a favorite myth - like Hercules, Noah, or Gilgamesh. |
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Then find fairy tales or myths from several other countries that seem to follow the same pattern. The story will be different, but the pattern will be the same. You should have two different countries for each person in your group (for instance, a group of 3 will have 6 stories from 6 different countries.) |
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As a group, create a modern story that follows your chosen pattern. |
Process
1. Decide what story you wish to use. (For example, Cinderella)
2. Figure out the pattern of the story. What are the main parts of the story? Who are the main characters? What lesson is being taught? How do events work to create the desired end? Is there any supernatural element to the story?
3. Research other countries for stories that fit your pattern. (There are lots of them in the library and on the internet!)
4. Write a short version(summary) of each story (no more than one page). Cite the source you used on the page. Example
5. As a group, write a modern version of the story. For instance, Cinderella could be from Honolulu and live in a condo in Hawaii Kai. Change the events to fit your modern pattern. Remember to include things that make the story modern - like telephones, videos, and even computers! Be creative.
Evaluation
Put the information and stories into a portfolio (paper or digital). Then prepare a 15-20 minute oral presentation of your group activities. This may be in any form that you wish, but must contain;
1. The pattern you discovered;
2. How the stories all fit the pattern (You do not need to tell all the stories; just tell how they fit.);
3. A telling of your modern story.