KS2
Venue: Wardown Park Museum or in school (60 minutes)
Session summary:
This session introduces the concept of the Hero-Myth from ancient Greek Culture. Children will be told the story of Heracles and the Erymanthian Boar. This story will draw out Heracles' demi-god status and the moral lessons behind the myth. The second half of the session focuses on the children creating their own myth using an image from replica Greek pot as a starting point. Through small group role play children develop the plot, name heroes and monsters and explore themes of Greek tragedy and flawed heroes. Children then act out their role play for the class, before further developing their story using a story planner. This planner can then be used after the session, as extension, to write a fully developed Greek myth.
Assessment opportunities: During this session students’ knowledge and understanding can be assessed through their verbal contributions.
Curriculum links:
History
An aspect of history that extends pupils’ chronological knowledge beyond 1066 e.g. the legacy of Greek culture (art, architecture or literature).
Ancient Greece – a study of Greek life and achievements and their influence on the
Western world.
English
Use of suffixes and understand how to add them
Discuss and record ideas
Draft narratives, creating settings, characters and plot
SMSC Cultural Development—
Understanding and appreciation of the wide range of cultural influences that have shaped their heritage
Cross curricula links:
Citizenship
Different lifestyles
Learning objectives:
Pupils should be able to:
 Outline a creative story use a story-planning chart and objects for inspiration
 Use role play to communicate their ideas


Know the Greeks had a strong culture of story-telling
Name a Greek Hero and a Greek God
Learning outcomes:
The children will have constructed and roleplayed part of their own Greek Myth. Most will be able to name a Greek Hero and a Greek God or Goddess, and will be aware of the importance of story-telling to the Ancient Greeks.

Additional information:
For the group work the children will be asked to split into 5 groups. Each group will require at least one person who is comfortable speaking in front of the whole class. Creating groups beforehand is beneficial as it reduces disruption during the session. Space is required for group work but this can be done either on the floor or around tables.
It is useful to know if any members of your class have learning, physical or sensory difficulties or illnesses that may affect their enjoyment of the session. It is usually possible to tailor the session to the needs of your class. Please let us know at least 2 weeks in advance by contacting us on
01582 546740 or schools@lutonculture.com to discuss.
Suggested activities:
Before the visit
Although this session can be used as an introduction to Ancient Greece and Greek myths it is beneficial for the children to have some basic knowledge of the civilisation before the visit. For example they should know basic facts about Ancient Greek life and history.
After the visit
Children could:
 Expand on their myth.
 Find out more about Heracles and his tasks.
 Research a Greek god or goddess.
Useful resources
Luton Culture Learning : http://www.lutonculture.com/learning/schools/museum-schools-service/ schools-key-stage-2/key-stage-2-ancient-greece/
BBC History for kids : www.bbc.co.uk/history/forkids/ for Ancient Greek games