If you LOVE mythology, you've come to the right place.  As an author and teacher, Mr. LeCara especially enjoys peeling back story layers, discussing and discovering with his students what makes them enduring.  So many of yesterday's myths are integrated into today's stories... stories in books, movies, television, cartoons, and even advertising.  

Throughout this course, we will explore the interconnected stories, characters, and themes established in Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythology and the lasting impact they have on modern storytelling. 

Join us on this fascinating journey through the ages as we uncover the enduring stories of our past. The course includes additional info, connections, stories, and facts posted to Outschool throughout our time together.

THREE OVER-ARCHING TOPICS WE WILL BE ADDRESSING IN ALL READINGS. In the course, we will delve into three captivating topics that will unlock the secrets behind the enduring nature of stories. Together, we will explore why so many stories share similarities, unraveling the threads that connect them across time and cultures. We will also uncover the profound insights these stories offer about the cultures in which they flourished, providing us with a window into their beliefs, values, and traditions. 

We will explore, examine, and uncover several other captivating topics related to mythology as well, such as: 
--how myths serve as a way to explain natural phenomena
--the role of myths in teaching lessons and maintaining societal order
--how myths offer insights into understanding human behavior

Behold the fascinating layers of myths that we'll unravel to discover the diverse functions they have served throughout history. From explaining the mysteries of the natural world to imparting moral lessons and providing cultural explanations, myths offer a captivating glimpse into the human experience. Together, we will explore these intriguing aspects of mythology and gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring power of these ancient stories.

HOW STUDENTS WILL LEARN
In "Enduring Stories: Myths Across the Ages," learners will engage in various dynamic learning methods to fully immerse themselves in the world of mythology:

   o Reading: Our young mythologists will explore myths through both group readings and self-guided exploration, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the stories and their cultural significance.
  o Activities: Exciting hands-on activities will bring mythology to life, including writing exercises inspired by the Ancient Egyptians, creating scrolls reminiscent of sacred texts, designing their own bows and arrows, and even experiencing the tastes of ancient funerary feasts.
  o Writing: Through guided questions, summarizing exercises, answering open-ended questions, and keen observations, learners will develop their analytical and critical thinking skills, deepening their understanding of the myths and their broader implications.

By actively engaging with the material through reading, immersive activities, and thought-provoking writing exercises, learners will have a rich and interactive learning experience, fostering a deeper connection with the enduring stories of mythology.

HOW STUDENTS WILL INTERACT WITH THE TEACHER AND THEIR PEERS
In this course, interaction with both the teacher and fellow peers will be key to deepening an understanding of mythology. Here's how learners will engage with each other throughout the journey:

  o  Outside of class: Mr. LeCara will be available 24/7, ready to answer any questions or provide additional guidance whenever needed. Feel free to reach out to Mr. L outside of class hours to further explore the stories under study or to seek clarification on any aspect of the course.

  o  During class: Come prepared to dive into the stories and actively participate in discussions. Learners will analyze the language, unravel the plot, and explore the intriguing characters that bring these myths to life. Embrace the opportunity to challenge and question your peers and even the teacher, as diverse interpretations can deepen everyone's understanding and spark new insights.

Remember, this is a space where your ideas are valued, and your perspective matters.  Creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment fosters active participation and open-mindedness. These are essential elements in this journey into the captivating world of mythology because it encourages respectful dialogue and the sharing of different viewpoints. 

HOW CLASS TIME IS STRUCTURED
Class time is structured to ensure comprehensive coverage of the course material and active engagement of learners. The specific structure may vary depending on the section duration, but here is a general outline:

 o  For sections with two classes per week: Each week will focus on one story, allowing in-depth exploration and discussion.
 o  For sections with one class per week: Two weeks will be dedicated to each story, providing ample time for analysis and reflection.
 o  Most often two classes per week for three-week sections will be offered. In some cases, sections may run once a week for six weeks to accommodate scheduling requests.
 o  The first part of each class will involve lively discussions on summaries, readings, guided questions, and learner-crafted questions, fostering critical thinking and active participation.
 o  The second part of the class will incorporate a combination of reading aloud and attentive listening, enabling learners to immerse themselves in the captivating narratives of the myths.

By following this structured approach, mythologists will have the opportunity to delve into the stories, engage in meaningful conversations, and develop a deeper understanding of the enduring themes and cultural significance found in mythology.

STORIES COVERED:
o Egyptian Mythology: "The Myth of Osiris"
o Greek Mythology: "The Myth of Persephone"
o Roman Mythology: "The Kidnapping"
o and more, depending on the groups enrolled