Activity Overview
English words related to mythology often came from Roman names because the development of English was heavily influenced by Latin, the language of the Roman Empire. When the Romans conquered the Greeks, they assimilated the Greek gods into their own culture. Because of this, Roman versions of the Greek gods and goddesses are similar, but have different names. It's from these names that many familiar English words begin to appear.
Greek and Roman Names for the Olympians
| Greek Name | Roman Name | Greek Name | Roman Name | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zeus | Jupiter/Jove | Hera | Juno | |
| Hades | Pluto | Poseidon | Neptune | |
| Demeter | Ceres | Hestia | Vesta | |
| Hephaestus | Vulcan | Aphrodite | Venus | |
| Apollo | Apollo | Artemis | Diana | |
| Athena | Minerva | Ares | Mars | |
| Hermes | Mercury | Dionysus | Bacchus | |
| Hercules | Hercules | Persephone | Proserpina |
Olympian Vocabulary Example
- jovial
- Herculean
- mercurial
- cereal
- martial
- volcano
Students will create a visual vocabulary board that shows the relationship between the god from the Greek myth and the English word.
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 a storyboard for at least three vocabulary words that shows the relationship between the character from the myth and the English word.
- Choose three vocabulary words and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Use the dividing line in Scenes > Patterns to split cells into two parts.
- On one side, show and depict the character from myth.
- On the other side, illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary word.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example Sentences | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentences can be understood, but the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
Activity Overview
English words related to mythology often came from Roman names because the development of English was heavily influenced by Latin, the language of the Roman Empire. When the Romans conquered the Greeks, they assimilated the Greek gods into their own culture. Because of this, Roman versions of the Greek gods and goddesses are similar, but have different names. It's from these names that many familiar English words begin to appear.
Greek and Roman Names for the Olympians
| Greek Name | Roman Name | Greek Name | Roman Name | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zeus | Jupiter/Jove | Hera | Juno | |
| Hades | Pluto | Poseidon | Neptune | |
| Demeter | Ceres | Hestia | Vesta | |
| Hephaestus | Vulcan | Aphrodite | Venus | |
| Apollo | Apollo | Artemis | Diana | |
| Athena | Minerva | Ares | Mars | |
| Hermes | Mercury | Dionysus | Bacchus | |
| Hercules | Hercules | Persephone | Proserpina |
Olympian Vocabulary Example
- jovial
- Herculean
- mercurial
- cereal
- martial
- volcano
Students will create a visual vocabulary board that shows the relationship between the god from the Greek myth and the English word.
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 a storyboard for at least three vocabulary words that shows the relationship between the character from the myth and the English word.
- Choose three vocabulary words and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Use the dividing line in Scenes > Patterns to split cells into two parts.
- On one side, show and depict the character from myth.
- On the other side, illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary word.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example Sentences | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentences can be understood, but the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about Greek Mythology Vocabulary Activity
Organize a Greek mythology vocabulary word wall in your classroom
Create a visible, interactive word wall featuring Greek mythology vocabulary to boost student engagement and word retention. Label each word with its mythological root and modern meaning for quick reference and daily reinforcement.
Select key vocabulary words from your curriculum
Review your current reading materials and highlight essential Greek mythology terms students need to know. Choose words that appear in texts, class discussions, or assessments.
Design creative, student-made word cards
Assign each student (or pair) a vocabulary word to research, define, and illustrate. Encourage them to show both the mythical character and the word's modern meaning on their cards for increased understanding.
Display cards in a prominent, easy-to-access area
Arrange word cards neatly on a dedicated section of your wall or bulletin board. Make sure the display is eye-catching and allows students to add or reference words throughout the unit.
Incorporate word wall activities into daily lessons
Use quick games, review questions, or exit tickets involving the word wall to reinforce vocabulary. Invite students to use words in context or connect them to other subjects for deeper learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Greek Mythology Vocabulary Activity
What is a Greek mythology vocabulary activity for students?
A Greek mythology vocabulary activity helps students connect English words to their mythological origins by exploring how terms like "jovial" or "martial" relate to gods and myths. This boosts both vocabulary and cultural understanding.
How can I teach Greek mythology vocabulary using visual boards?
Use visual vocabulary boards by having students pick mythology-based words, research their origins, and create storyboards that show both the mythological figure and the word's modern meaning side by side for deeper learning.
What are some English words derived from Greek and Roman gods?
Common English words from Greek and Roman gods include jovial (Jupiter), herculean (Hercules), cereal (Ceres), martial (Mars), volcano (Vulcan), and mercurial (Mercury).
Why do many English words have roots in Greek and Roman mythology?
Many English words come from Greek and Roman mythology because English was influenced by Latin, and the Romans adopted Greek gods with new names, leading to vocabulary based on their myths and stories.
What is the best way to help students connect mythology to English vocabulary?
The best way is through creative activities like making visual vocabulary boards, which help students link mythological characters to word meanings, making abstract vocabulary more memorable and engaging.
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