English 10 Honors
Group Project
General Instructions for Teaching a Book of The Odyssey
Step 1: Read Books IX through XIII prior to the presentations.
Procedure: Each group will provide the following:
Ø A Google Doc shared with the class (through myself) pertaining to the specifically assigned book that contains the following:
o character list of all key players identified (provide page numbers & quotes that are examples of key events, actions, or speeches for the specific character. If these connect to a theme, epic convention, or aspect of the heroic journey, indicate this) 4 points
o a complete description of any newly introduced character, mortal or immortal. *if they do not engage with the main events and/or are part of an epic aside, you do not need to include them unless they are key figures in Greek mythology (again, include page number & quote) 4 points
o a 15-20 sentence summary of the book, which will include a tie-in to previously mentioned information, if necessary. The summary should be your own creation, not one taken from a website. This is graded as an informational writing assignment (8 points)
o identification and explanation of the following:
§ Omens and prophecies
§ Foreshadowing
§ Epic conventions & characteristics
§ Mythical archetypes/steps in the heroic journey
§ Themes
§ Interesting vocabulary (words you don’t immediately recognize or can figure out based on context) 4 points
o a list of five pertinent, thought-provoking questions about your book (reference the Higher Order Thinking Skills Questions Handout) (5 points)
o *25 points
o a set of 10 study guide questions (these are comprehension, which means they have a concrete answer). Include a copy of the answers for the instructor only that contains complete response to all questions in sentence format. (5 points)
Ø A reenactment of the key elements found within the assigned book; do not merely present a small scene! Your production might include several themes and should run 10 minutes. Your presentation must include:
o Essential props for each character in the play portion for easy identification. Do not simply provide name tags
o Sets: Be creative with materials in the room and/or create additional pieces
o Costumes: be creative
o A script should include both stage directions and dialogue. This portion (copy) MUST be submitted the day before your presentation.
o Use of a narrator, whenever necessary, to assist with audience understanding
o Minimal “modernizing” of the language
The reenactment will be worth 20 points. As a class you will work with the instructor to develop the grading rubric for this presentation.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
The name and title of the book assigned at the top of the handout, along with the complete names of all group members
Equal participation and overall contributions by its members to this project
Clear evidence of preparation and practice so that the performance/presentation runs smoothly
Presentation Dates: Books IX: 10/16, book X 10/17
Books XI 10/20, Book XII 10/21
*****If a group needs copies of the handout for the class, you may bring them
**** Students who are absent for the presentation will be given an alternate speech assignment that they will present to the class.