Greek Myth Lab: Build-a-Beast
*This course is intended for lower elementary students
Workshop Schedule
9:00-11:00 am PST
Wednesday, June 17th
OR
Monday, July 13th
A 15-minute break will be built into class.
Note: Classes are listed in PST, click below to convert time to your time zone.
Workshop Overview
What defines a monster? Is it a terrifying snarl, a trail of destruction, or something deeper hidden within their origin story?
In this lab, we dive into the ancient world of Greek mythology to dissect the components and commonalities of some of the most legendary creatures. We will explore how classic monsters were shaped by the fears and values of the cultures that created them. Then, you will step into the role of creator to engineer your own original beast from scratch.
From naming your creature and mapping its habitat to defining its place in the food chain, you’ll work to build a biological and mythological profile for your new creature.
Student Outcomes:
- Identify the specific traits that define a monster in classical mythology and discuss why these figures resonate across history.
- Apply biological and narrative concepts to design a creature profile.
Student Experience
Pattern Seeker/Detective
Artist
Inventor
Your Teachers: Sarah Merkt & Kathryn Bernhardt
Sarah Merkt has worked as a teacher and curriculum designer for over 12 years in gifted schools in both Asia and America. She holds her certification in Middle Childhood Education from Xavier University. Most recently, she worked for 4 years at The Nueva School in Hillsborough, CA. She is a passionate advocate for gifted students and their parents and strives to infuse best practices into her curriculum in the classroom. She currently serves as Program Manager and Learning Consultant at Cresconova.
Kathryn Bernhardt grew up in Novato, California and graduated from Chapman University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. She has spent the past four years teaching students from kindergarten through high school, though she feels especially at home working with young learners.Kathryn's love for storytelling fuels her passion for helping students discover their own voices. She strives to help students use their imaginations to stretch their knowledge, build new skills, and create work they can truly be proud of. In her free time,Kathrynloves to read, play board games, and travel the world. She is thrilled to share her joy for writing and learning with Cresconova students!
