Activity Overview
For many years audiences have enjoyed learning about King Arthur, Merlin, the Knights of the Round Table, Guinevere and Lancelot, and more. It is true that the legend of King Arthur is fascinating, but what is real and what is myth?
Using a T-Chart labeled with Realistic Elements (or Historically Accurate or Factual) and Mythical Elements (or Fictional), students should choose different events or elements that illustrate parts of the story that could have actually happened, and those we know could not have happened. Many of the tales about King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table are folklore or based on speculation.
Historically, certain things did occur, and others are possible, even if they are not exactly like Arthurian legend. Other elements, like magic spells, dragons, and the holy grail are myths we can mark as definitely fiction.
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 comparing realistic and mythical events in King Arthur.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Identify different elements or events in the story.
- Describe what the text says and then describe the reality.
- Illustrate each element with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
For many years audiences have enjoyed learning about King Arthur, Merlin, the Knights of the Round Table, Guinevere and Lancelot, and more. It is true that the legend of King Arthur is fascinating, but what is real and what is myth?
Using a T-Chart labeled with Realistic Elements (or Historically Accurate or Factual) and Mythical Elements (or Fictional), students should choose different events or elements that illustrate parts of the story that could have actually happened, and those we know could not have happened. Many of the tales about King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table are folklore or based on speculation.
Historically, certain things did occur, and others are possible, even if they are not exactly like Arthurian legend. Other elements, like magic spells, dragons, and the holy grail are myths we can mark as definitely fiction.
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 comparing realistic and mythical events in King Arthur.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Identify different elements or events in the story.
- Describe what the text says and then describe the reality.
- Illustrate each element with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about King Arthur Fact or Fiction? Activity
How to Facilitate a King Arthur Debate in Your Classroom
Encourage critical thinking by organizing a debate where students defend whether King Arthur was a real historical figure or a myth. This activity makes students analyze evidence, practice persuasive speaking, and engage with the legend in a dynamic way.
Choose debate teams and assign positions
Divide your class into two groups: one arguing that King Arthur was real, the other that he is fictional. This structure ensures every student has a clear role and perspective to research and defend.
Provide research materials and set clear guidelines
Gather books, articles, and websites about King Arthur's legend and history. Set time limits for speaking, and remind students to use respectful language and cite their sources for a fair debate.
Coach students on building strong arguments
Model how to use evidence from both the legend and historical facts. Show students how to support their points with specific examples, making their arguments more convincing and accurate.
Moderate the debate and encourage reflection
Guide the debate by keeping time and ensuring all voices are heard. Afterward, ask students to reflect on what they learned and how their opinions may have changed based on the evidence presented.
Frequently Asked Questions about King Arthur Fact or Fiction? Activity
What is the King Arthur fact or fiction activity for middle school students?
The King Arthur fact or fiction activity is a lesson where students use a T-chart to separate events and characters from the Arthurian legends into realistic (historically accurate) and mythical (fictional) categories, helping them distinguish between history and legend.
How do I create a T-chart to compare realistic and mythical elements in King Arthur stories?
To create a T-chart, draw two columns labeled Realistic Elements and Mythical Elements. List story events or characters under each heading based on whether they could have really happened or are clearly fictional, such as knights (realistic) versus dragons (mythical).
Which parts of the King Arthur legend are based on historical fact?
Some aspects, like the existence of a warrior leader in post-Roman Britain and the concept of knights, have historical basis. However, specific details—like King Arthur himself, Merlin, and the Round Table—are mostly legendary or speculative.
What are examples of mythical elements in the King Arthur tales?
Mythical elements in King Arthur stories include magic spells, dragons, the Holy Grail, and the wizard Merlin. These are not supported by historical evidence and are considered fiction.
Why is it important for students to distinguish fact from fiction in legends like King Arthur?
Distinguishing fact from fiction helps students develop critical thinking skills, understand the difference between history and myth, and appreciate how stories evolve over time.
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