Myth Assignment
DUE: Beginning of class Tues., Sept. 4
Write a myth based upon National Geographic’s article “Spirit Bear.” Your myth may include factual
information from the article, but that is not a requirement. You may write a general myth, a creation myth, or a
trickster tale. This assignment is worth a test grade.
Requirements:
 Must contain all four functions of myth (Trickster tales must have a trickster hero that exhibits all three
aspects of the trickster hero’s personality.)
 Must display standard conventions of a short story (exposition, conflict/inciting incident, rising action,
climax, falling action/ dénouement, resolution)
 Must utilize standard grammar and usage
 Must utilize appropriately at least three vocabulary words that we’ve covered this year (units 1-2)
Grading Rubric:
Good
Explains the mysteries of the
universe
Instills awe
Supports customs
Guides moral behavior
Standard grammar and usage
Fair
Poor
-0
-4
-8
-0
-0
-0
-0
Contains 2 or
fewer errors
-4
-4
-4
-5
Contains more
than 2 errors that
do not hinder
comprehension
-4
Utilizes 3 words
with at least 2
used correctly
-5
Evidence of only
two stages of
writing submitted
-8
-8
-8
-10
Contains more than 2 errors that
hinder the reader’s ability to
comprehend the text
Utilizes appropriately three
vocabulary words
-0
Utilizes 3 words
accurately
Prewriting, original, revised,
and final drafts submitted
-0
Evidence of all
four stages of
writing
submitted
-8
Utilizes fewer than three voc. words
or utilizes them with less than 2/3
accuracy
-10
No evidence of the writing process
(or “sloppy” copy & “neat” copy)
Plan of Action:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Gather details from the article that you would want to include in your myth.
Use a four functions of myth chart to brainstorm ideas for your poem.
Scan your vocabulary lists for words that would go well with your ideas.
Compose the myth.
Go back and reread your myth making note of any weak or skimpy parts. What questions might your
reader ask for which you need to provide answers? Provide those answers.