Subject: English, comparative religions, world studies, art

Grade Level: 8+

Time Duration: Two class sessions

Objective: Evaluating myths, legends and faith-stories; creative writing/drawing

Overview: Create a graphic/text version of a myth, fable, faith-story or legend.

Lesson Design

Anticipatory Set (focus) – In The Manga Bible, Book of Shiva, American Born Chinese and The Golem, religious stories and cultural myths are told in graphic form. Of course, these stories were from all across the religious spectrum: Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism and Judaism. Every culture and every microcosm has its own myths, legends and stories from which it derives wisdom and understanding of the world. 

Presentation – Using these examples as models, write out and/or draw a story from your culture. This assignment is not restricted to religious stories; you may use urban, community and historical legends (i.e., Washington chopping down the cherry tree). 

Practice – During the first class, conduct a brainstorming session to create ideas for the class and allow the students to select their topics up-front. Practice outlining stories, character design and sketching.

Closure – During the second class meeting, students will present their work to the class.