Project Description
Students will explore different types of myths including indigenous myths, the journey of a Ponderosa Pine from a pine cone, and local folk tales. We will play with forms beyond the written word like origami and theater as we develop our myths. Students will engage in collective and personal storytelling—ultimately culminating in students writing their own origin stories.
Final Product
Students will write their own origin story. Depending on the class, the last class will be dedicated to writing a creation story for a class anthology or group performance.
Learning Outcomes
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Students will gain knowledge about their local environment from the natural world to local indigenous creation stories and folk legends.
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Students will be able to identify the myths and origin stories they’re familiar with.
- Students will learn how to make an origami pine tree.
- Students will improve their ability to write sensory-rich origin stories.
- Students will gain confidence around sharing and composing personal narratives.
Suggested Grades
- 3rd-12th grades, but can be adapted for k-2nd.
Pricing Breakdown
- 4 visits at 45 minutes each
- Prep hours: 1.5 hours per classroom
- Materials: $1.50 per student
- Travel from Portland
Meet the Artist
Why I teach art:
“I teach art because art allows students to explore their experiences and challenge the single stories that can silence creativity and dreaming. Teaching creative writing is one of my passions because it’s accessible and inexpensive, so students can continue to expand their poetic universes. I believe art-making is a portal to creative and confident communities, and I love getting to be a part of that spark. ” -Meg E. Ready
