Myths that Changed the World
*This course is intended for lower elementary students
Class Schedule
Wednesdays 1:00-1:50 pm PST
September 16, September 23, September 30,
October 7, October 14, October 21
Note: Classes are listed in PST, click below to convert time to your time zone.
Course Overview
Long before books, movies, or the internet, people used myths to explain the mysteries of the world. Why does fire matter so much? Why do floods appear in stories from every continent? What makes someone a hero?
In this six-week course, students will explore the timeless ideas hidden inside some of our oldest tales. We'll compare stories from cultures around the globe to discover the universal questions they ask and why they continue to inspire us today.
Each week centers around a powerful theme, including fire, creation, tricksters, heroes, floods, etc. Students will investigate what these stories reveal about human nature and the societies that created them. Along the way, they'll connect ancient myths to modern discoveries, current events, and popular culture.
If time allows, students will create an original myth that speaks to a challenge, mystery, or hope of our modern world, drawing inspiration from the myths we have studied together.
Students will:
- Compare myths from a variety of cultures to identify shared themes, symbols, and enduring questions.
- Explore how myths have influenced history, literature, psychology, science, art, and modern storytelling.
- Analyze why certain stories continue to resonate across cultures and generations.
- Engage in philosophical discussions about universal questions.
- Strengthen critical thinking by evaluating different interpretations of myths and the ideas they communicate.
Student Experience
Inventor
Writer
Pattern Seeker
Literary Analyst
Your Teacher: Sarah Merkt
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.
