Activity Overview
Heracles performed many different tasks in order to atone for the murder of his family. Identifying the Twelve Labors is important to know more about Heracles' accomplishments, but each Labor is an interesting story on its own. In this activity, students will create a newspaper front page describing one of the labors of Heracles. Students can also include some of their own inventions to fill in any gaps. They could include fictional quotes from various characters, such as townspeople that were saved, Eurystheus, proud Zeus, angry Hera, or Hercules himself! Students can also choose an unexpected point of view, like reporting for a newspaper for monsters, the gods, or the Amazons.
In addition, students can pull from other Greek myths they know or are learning about to complete a full newspaper page, such as the example above.
For additional templates to include in this assignment, check out our Newspaper Poster and Newspaper Worksheet templates!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create the front page of a newspaper that describes one or more of the Labors of Hercules.
- Click "Start Assignment."
- Create a title for your newspaper and a catchy headline for the main story.
- Use appropriate scenes, characters and items to create "photographs" for your article.
- Include captions for "photographs".
- Write the accompanying text for the main story, and any other articles on the front page.
- You may need to delete the placeholder lines and add new Textables.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline and Descriptions | Students include a catchy headline for the front page as well as detailed descriptions for each event illustrated that explain what happened in a minimum of 3-5 sentences. | The headline and/or the descriptions for the events can be understood but it is somewhat unclear or too brief. | The front page is missing either the headline or descriptions of each of the events depicted. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the events using appropriate scenes, characters and items. It is clear the student took time and care in creating the illustrations. | The illustrations partially relate to the events but they are difficult to understand or appear rushed. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the key events of the story. |
| Spelling, Grammar, Punctuation | Final product is free of spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors. | Final product contains up to three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that do not alter the meaning of the text. | Final product contains more than three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar. |
Activity Overview
Heracles performed many different tasks in order to atone for the murder of his family. Identifying the Twelve Labors is important to know more about Heracles' accomplishments, but each Labor is an interesting story on its own. In this activity, students will create a newspaper front page describing one of the labors of Heracles. Students can also include some of their own inventions to fill in any gaps. They could include fictional quotes from various characters, such as townspeople that were saved, Eurystheus, proud Zeus, angry Hera, or Hercules himself! Students can also choose an unexpected point of view, like reporting for a newspaper for monsters, the gods, or the Amazons.
In addition, students can pull from other Greek myths they know or are learning about to complete a full newspaper page, such as the example above.
For additional templates to include in this assignment, check out our Newspaper Poster and Newspaper Worksheet templates!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create the front page of a newspaper that describes one or more of the Labors of Hercules.
- Click "Start Assignment."
- Create a title for your newspaper and a catchy headline for the main story.
- Use appropriate scenes, characters and items to create "photographs" for your article.
- Include captions for "photographs".
- Write the accompanying text for the main story, and any other articles on the front page.
- You may need to delete the placeholder lines and add new Textables.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline and Descriptions | Students include a catchy headline for the front page as well as detailed descriptions for each event illustrated that explain what happened in a minimum of 3-5 sentences. | The headline and/or the descriptions for the events can be understood but it is somewhat unclear or too brief. | The front page is missing either the headline or descriptions of each of the events depicted. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the events using appropriate scenes, characters and items. It is clear the student took time and care in creating the illustrations. | The illustrations partially relate to the events but they are difficult to understand or appear rushed. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the key events of the story. |
| Spelling, Grammar, Punctuation | Final product is free of spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors. | Final product contains up to three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that do not alter the meaning of the text. | Final product contains more than three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar. |
How Tos about 12 Labors of Hercules Newspaper Spotlight Activity
Incorporate primary sources to make newspaper stories more authentic
Enhance realism by encouraging students to add imagined diary entries, letters, or official proclamations from key mythological figures. This gives their newspaper articles a more immersive, primary source feel and helps students better understand historical perspectives.
Assign students to research the historical context of Greek myths
Have students investigate the time period and cultural significance of the myths to create richer newspaper articles. This step helps them connect the stories to real-world ancient Greek society and deepens their comprehension.
Guide students to use persuasive language in their headlines
Teach students to craft attention-grabbing headlines using persuasive or dramatic wording. This technique draws readers in, mimics real journalism, and reinforces writing skills.
Encourage peer review and constructive feedback sessions
Organize a classroom exchange where students read and provide positive, specific feedback on each other's newspapers. This fosters collaboration, strengthens editing abilities, and helps everyone improve their work.
Display finished newspapers to celebrate student creativity
Showcase student work by creating a classroom or hallway display of completed newspapers. This public recognition builds confidence and motivates students to put forth their best effort.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Labors of Hercules Newspaper Spotlight Activity
What is the 12 Labors of Hercules newspaper activity?
The 12 Labors of Hercules newspaper activity is a creative assignment where students design a newspaper front page that reports on one or more of Heracles’ legendary tasks, using headlines, articles, and images to retell the myths in an engaging format.
How can students make their Hercules newspaper project more interesting?
Students can add fictional quotes, invent new details, report from unique perspectives (like monsters or gods), and draw on other Greek myths to make their Hercules newspaper project more engaging and original.
What are some tips for creating a newspaper front page about the Labors of Hercules?
Start with a catchy headline, use vivid images or illustrations, include captions, write concise articles, and consider including interviews or quotes from characters to bring the Labors of Hercules to life for readers.
Where can I find templates for a Hercules-themed newspaper assignment?
You can find helpful templates like the Newspaper Poster and Newspaper Worksheet to make your Hercules-themed newspaper assignment easier and more professional-looking.
Why is it useful for students to write from different points of view in this activity?
Writing from different points of view helps students practice creative thinking, deepen their understanding of Greek myths, and makes the newspaper activity more fun and immersive.
More Storyboard That Activities
Greek Mythology: The 12 Labors of Hercules
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