Teaching Notes
This module focuses on the mythology part of RL.4.4. It is worth mentioning to the class, however, that
students can use context clues to figure out the meaning of any unfamiliar word, not just words that
allude to mythology. This standard is not about teaching mythology, but about using knowledge of
common myths to figure out the meaning of words and phrases. The following information contains
ideas that teachers can incorporate into their classroom as well as additional resources to peruse and
integrate into instruction as appropriate.
Activities
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1. Divide students into pairs and assign them a word or expression that alludes to mythology. Ask
them to research what the word means and then write a sentence using the word correctly.
Have students share their sentences with the class.
2. Choose four to five words or expressions from the links below. Write a sentence or paragraph
for each expression that gives context clues to its meaning. Post the paragraphs around the
room, so that each paragraph serves as a separate station. Then have students complete a
gallery walk in groups. Groups should take turns visiting each paragraph and identifying context
clues that show the meaning of the expression. Once groups have visited all of the stations, have
students return to their seats. Then ask students to share their ideas as a class. Make sure to
review which context clues show the meaning of each expression.
Additional Resources
Consider these additional resources when teaching RL.4.4.
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This website lists ways that mythology is used in language. Consider discussing some of these examples
with your class:
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http://www.thehellenictimes.com/language.html
Here is another list of English words taken from Greek mythology:

http://reference.yourdictionary.com/resources/roots-english-words-greek-mythology.html