by Michael Deiter, Park Elementary
This webquest engulfs students in all that is fantastic in the world of fairy tales. Students will be able to identify fairy tale characteristics, point of view, and theme. Several authors have developed a keen style while be able to "spin" the original tale which uniquely differs from the first. You will read several original fairy tales and delve into numerous varriances of these tales using modern picture and chapter books. An author study will allow deeper understanding of the fairy tale differences while they maintain the appropriate fairy tale structure. Students will be reading a classic fairy tale from Brothers Grimm or Charles Perrault and comparing and contrasting the classic tale to a modern, retold, or fractured version of the same tale. Students will produce a piece of writing that is fractured from the original they have chosen, just like the modern authors. A reader's theater play will culminate this unit. Groups will develop a script, props, and costumes to perform the play.
Teacher Introduction
Have you spent numerous hours calamoring for ideas and lessons that will encompass a multitute of state standards and skills all at the same time? I have. This fairy tale webquest / unit is one way I am able to teach numerous skills while students are motivated and engaged. Yes, even the males! This webquest teachers story elements, point of view, comparing and contrasting, analyzing text, persuasion, and encourages writing. I hope you and your students have fun in the magical world of fairy tales.