NEVADASTATECOLLEGE TEACHERPREPARATIONPROGRAM LESSONPLANFORMAT

Description of Classroom:
Ninth grade, English I Honors, mix of boys and girls from various race and ethnic backgrounds.

Background:
Introduction to the epic hero and epithets used to describe characters. Students will begin reading The Odyssey this week. Lesson will take one day, one class period.

Content Objective(s):
SWBAT: Analyze an authors use and purpose of symbolism based on what they learn about epic heroes and epithets. SWBAT: Display their knowledge by creating their own version an epithet which symbolizes the character of their choice and discussing why they feel the character embodies the characteristics of an epic hero.

Language Objective(s):
SWBAT: Read the handout and understand an authors use of epithets as symbolism.

SWBAT: Write their own version an epithet which symbolizes the character of their choice.
SWBAT: Discuss why they chose their character, how the character embodies the traits of an epic hero, and share the epithets they created then explain how the epithet applies to the character. SWBAT: Listen to their classmates during discussion and take their thoughts into consideration before responding in a respectful manner.

Nevada Standards:
3.12.A1 Analyze an authors use and purpose of symbolism.

Key Vocabulary:
Hubris: Exaggerated pride or self-confidence. Epithet: Used for characterization, realism, vividness in narrative, and an identifier for the audience.

Best Practices: (put an X next to those that you address in your lesson)
X X Preparation Adaptation of content Links to background Links to past learning Strategies incorporated Integration of Processes Listening Speaking Reading Writing X X X X X X X X X Scaffolding Modeling Guided practice Independent practice Verbal scaffolds Procedural scaffolds Application Hands-on Authentic (Meaningful) Linked to objectives Promotes engagement X X X X X X X X Grouping Options Whole Class Small groups Partners Independent Assessment Individual Group Written Oral

X X X X

Teaching Strategies:
KWL, Blooms Taxonomy, Gardners MI, Myers/Briggs.

Warm Up Activity:
Students will be asked to write the name of a character that they consider an epic hero. They will then turn it over and write a few words or a sentence describing the character.

Lesson Sequence:
I will give a brief description of what an epic hero is then ask the students to write the name of a character that they think fits the description and then flip over their card and write a short description of that character. I will ask the students if anyone would like to share theirs and then go into my examples. First, I will tell them to say the first name that pops into their head when I say The Boy Who Lived (Harry Potter) then I will ask who they think of when I say The Girl On Fire (Katniss Everdeen), The Boy With The Bread (Peeta Mellark), The Man of Steel (Superman). These will change depending on what the students give as examples. Once they have an idea of these names, I will explain what an epithet is and how it is used. They can reference this on the handout I give them. One more time, I will give epithet examples from Homer. I will then return to modern characters and create parallels between him or her and Odysseus to explain what epic heroes are and what they do. Students will select a superhero (which are as close to modern epic heroes that we have) and they will construct their own epithets and break into groups to discuss what they have done. Finally, I will give them the opportunity to share what they created with the rest of the class.

Accommodations:
Will be based on students IEP or specific request by the student.

Supplementary Materials:
Handouts explaining the use of epithets and giving examples. 3 x 5 index cards.

Review/Assessment:
Based on the creation of their epithets and our discussion.

Reflection:

Form: 005 JDC 4/22/08

EPIC HEROES AND EPITHETS

Epithets are used in epic poems for several reasons. They are used to identify individuals and allow the reader or audience to recognize their favorite characters. This is a form of Characterization. Epithets add a level of Realism. They appeal to the experience of the reader or audience based on their familiarity with folk-heroes, places, skills, objects, etc. They also help in visualizing what the author wants to get across. Variation and detail must be introduced often to avoid repetitiveness. An epithet can be purely descriptive and is often used without specific relevance or appropriateness to the context. Examples from Homer: Achilles: Swift-footed; Leader of men; godlike Agamemnon: Lord of men; godlike Menelaus: Master of the war-cry Athena: The clear eyed goddess Calypso: The bewitching nymph Odysseus: The great tactician; The man of twists and turns; much enduring; love of Zeus; Zeus equal in his minds resources.

What is an Epic Hero?

The epic hero is the central character, in an epic, who embodies larger-thanlife powers. Though they have great strength and powers, they are not perfect. Achilles is stubborn and proud, an example of hubris. Odysseus makes poor decisions and has several lapses in judgment. They do not lack for courage and are willing to continue to fight despite the dangers they face. This will to fight is what makes them appealing.

Characteristics of an Epic Hero

The heros birth is surrounded by unusual circumstances. The hero must face enemies, monsters, and trials while on their journey. In the end, the final task or battle must be completed alone. home and usually becomes the leader of his people.

Has great strength or power; often considered godlike power.

Once the final task is completed or the battle is won, the hero returns

Assignment:
Choose a popular superhero and create your own epithet for this character. Share with two or three people sitting in front of, behind, or beside you. Explain to them why you believe the character fits the model of an epic hero and then share you epithet and explain how you can up with it.