Grade 5: A New Spin on Ancient Stories
In Grade 5 history with Mr. Mike Willis and English with Ms. Kimm Lucas, students recently brought their study of ancient Greece to life through a cross-curricular project.
After learning about Greek myths, gods, and daily life in ancient Greece, students wrote their own modern retellings inspired by traditional myths. Each story reimagined key themes such as pride, temptation, and consequences in a new setting outside of ancient Greece, with original characters and conflicts. One student, for example, reimagined the story of Hercules through the lens of a hockey player, translating the hero’s trials into the challenges of the rink.
Students then created artifacts to represent their stories, drawing on how myths were shared visually in ancient Greece. Using symbolism, scenes, and carefully chosen details, each piece was designed to reflect both the original myth and the student’s modern retelling.
The project culminated in an open house for families, where students shared their stories and artifacts, explaining their inspiration, symbolism, and connections to Greek mythology.
By placing ancient themes into familiar, modern contexts, students demonstrated not only their understanding of Greek mythology but also their ability to see its relevance in the world around them, proving that these timeless stories still resonate in new and unexpected ways.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
