Objective:

Students will compare and contrast the elements of myths, legends, and epic poems and identify the common characteristics of each.

Materials:

-A list of myth, legend, and epic poem examples -Chart paper and markers -Images of myth, legend, and epic poem examples from art, print, and film -Chalkboard or whiteboard

Procedure:

1. Introduce the lesson by discussing the three different types of stories: myths, legends, and epic poems. Ask students if they have heard of any examples of each and write them down on the chalkboard or whiteboard.

2. Explain the definition of each type of story to the students and give them an example of a myth, legend, and epic poem.

3. Ask the students to work in small groups to brainstorm the common elements of myths, legends, and epic poems. Instruct the students to record their responses on the chart paper. Encourage them to consider the setting, plot, and characters of each type of story.

4. Instruct the students to look at the different examples of myths, legends, and epic poems you have provided them with. Ask them to use the chart paper to draw connections between the elements of the stories.

5. After the students have had a chance to discuss their observations, lead a class discussion on the common elements of a myth, a legend, and an epic poem.

6. As a final activity, ask the students to individually select a myth, a legend, or an epic poem of their choice to share with the class. Encourage them to discuss the similarities and differences between each type of story.

Assessment:

To assess student understanding of the lesson, ask the students to complete a written comparison of two of the stories they discussed in class. Alternatively, they can create a comic strip illustrating the common elements of each type of story.