The goal of this activity is for students to learn how to tell a story in order to make a complex topic (such as global warming or ozone holes) easier for a reader to grasp. Students realize that the narrative impulse underlies even scientific and technical writing and gain a better understanding of the role of myth as a "science" of imagination that helps us to gain insight into human motivation.

In a spin-off to studying about angular momentum, students use basic methods of comparative mythology to consider why spinning and weaving are common motifs in creation of myths and folktales. Note: The literacy activities for the Mechanics unit are based on physical themes that have broad application to our experience in the world — concepts of rhythm, balance, spin, gravity, levity, inertia, momentum, friction, stress and tension.

In this unit, students will delve deeper into the genre of myth to access appropriate standards.  The students will use Greek Mythology as a vehicle to master and apply fiction comprehension skills.  Students will also explore the background of Greek philosophers while applying and mastering nonfiction comprehension skills.  The students will show mastery by completing a Persuasive Writing Performance Based Assessment.