Unit Plan for The Odyssey
Unit Goals: Students will read the epic poem The Odyssey by Homer and
understand the themes and stories and how they are relevant today. Students will
understand how fate and free will play a part in life as well as literature. Students
will also make a connection to the other literary works that we have read this year;
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway,
The Outsiders by S.E.
Hinton, The Contender by Robert Lipsyte, and The Island on Bird Street by Uri
Orlev.
Understandings:
Essential Questions:
 What is more important,
Students will understand . . .
 Reasons for the Battle of Troy
fulfilling the quest or making the
 What is a hero?
journey?
 Gain a deeper appreciation of an
 What makes a Hero?
epic poem/story.
 Why read The Odyssey?
 Overcoming obstacles and
 When can our strengths become
difficulties in one’s life to reach
our weaknesses?
one’s goals/dreams.
Students will know. . .
 Major Greek gods and
goddesses.

Historical background that
made up The Iliad.
 The main characters in The
Odyssey.
 The impact that the decisions
that Odysseus made had on him
and his men.
 The adventures and events that
led to Odysseus finally getting
home.
 The various themes that make
this story so good.
 Students will use technology,
writing, and art to express their
opinions.
Students will be able . . .
 Demonstrate comprehension of
important passages in the text.

Respond to questions about the
text.
 To read from the text silently and
aloud, both at home and in class.
 Conduct short research projects
to satisfy the various activities.
 Take quizzes and tests that are
comprehensive.
 Make a connection to the other
works of literature that we have
read this year.
Stage 2: Assessment Evidence
Performance Tasks:
 Create a PowerPoint, Powtoon, IMovie,
or any other way that demonstrates
understanding of The Odyssey.
 Write a speech that Odysseus might
make upon his return to Ithaka.
 Create a map using Google Maps to
show Odysseus travels over the 20 year
period.
 Create a blog/journal of Odysseus’s
adventures.
 Relate songs to The Odyssey and explain
how the lyrics tie in with the story –
close reading.
Other Evidence:
 Quizzes and tests.
 Journal/blog entries.
 Assessment of activities
through rubrics and
checklists.
Stage 3 ---Learning Plan
Learning Activities:
 Read Padraic Colum’s version of the Odyssey.
 Students will watch clips from the movie The Odyssey to get a better
understanding of the story.
 Answer study guide questions pertaining to plot, characters, theme, setting
and conflict.