Activity Overview
Many of the characters in The Lightning Thief are immortal and have been alive (or reincarnated) for thousands of years. Read about some of the characters in traditional mythology, then create a T-Chart that compares the traditional representation of the characters. In the description box below each picture, students will identify important symbols or attributes of the character and note the similarities and differences.
In the example, only two characters are represented. There are many characters to choose from:
- Ares
- Dionysus
- Zeus
- Poseidon
- Hades
- Furies
- Charon
- Echidna
- Chimera
- Medusa
- Procrustes
- Chiron
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 chart comparing the traditional representation of each mythological character with how they're portrayed in The Lightning Thief.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- In the left column, describe the characters as they appear in mythology.
- In the right column, describe the characters as they appear in The Lightning Thief.
- Illustrate each character.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compare and Contrast | Text includes a clear explanation of similarities and differences between the characters as they are depicted in mythology and in the novel. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text includes an explanation of similarities and differences between the characters in mythology and in the novel, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding. | Text may include no explanation of similarities and differences between the characters in mythology and in the novel, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Illustrations | Student clearly shows effort, time and care to include appropriate StoryboardThat characters for each character and uses items, animals or scenes in their design to describe the characters' attributes. | Depictions of characters and their attributes are mostly accurate but may have some discrepancies. The depictions show minimal effort, time, and care. | Many depictions of characters and their attributes are inaccurate or they are missing. There was very little time or effort put into the depictions. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes a minor error in spelling and grammar. | Student makes several minor errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
Many of the characters in The Lightning Thief are immortal and have been alive (or reincarnated) for thousands of years. Read about some of the characters in traditional mythology, then create a T-Chart that compares the traditional representation of the characters. In the description box below each picture, students will identify important symbols or attributes of the character and note the similarities and differences.
In the example, only two characters are represented. There are many characters to choose from:
- Ares
- Dionysus
- Zeus
- Poseidon
- Hades
- Furies
- Charon
- Echidna
- Chimera
- Medusa
- Procrustes
- Chiron
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 chart comparing the traditional representation of each mythological character with how they're portrayed in The Lightning Thief.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- In the left column, describe the characters as they appear in mythology.
- In the right column, describe the characters as they appear in The Lightning Thief.
- Illustrate each character.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compare and Contrast | Text includes a clear explanation of similarities and differences between the characters as they are depicted in mythology and in the novel. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text includes an explanation of similarities and differences between the characters in mythology and in the novel, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding. | Text may include no explanation of similarities and differences between the characters in mythology and in the novel, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Illustrations | Student clearly shows effort, time and care to include appropriate StoryboardThat characters for each character and uses items, animals or scenes in their design to describe the characters' attributes. | Depictions of characters and their attributes are mostly accurate but may have some discrepancies. The depictions show minimal effort, time, and care. | Many depictions of characters and their attributes are inaccurate or they are missing. There was very little time or effort put into the depictions. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes a minor error in spelling and grammar. | Student makes several minor errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Traditional Mythology vs. The Lightning Thief
Integrate short creative writing prompts into your mythology comparison lesson
Boost student engagement by adding quick, creative writing tasks during your comparison activity. For example, ask students to write a diary entry from a character’s perspective in both the traditional myth and The Lightning Thief. This helps them connect emotionally and think critically about character differences.
Model how to brainstorm key attributes before charting
Guide students to list unique symbols, powers, and traits for each character before filling in the T-Chart. This pre-writing step ensures that students have a strong foundation for accurate comparisons and deeper understanding.
Encourage collaborative charting with peer feedback
Promote teamwork by having students share their T-Charts with partners or small groups. Let them give feedback on each other’s similarities and differences, which builds discussion skills and enhances comprehension.
Display and discuss completed charts as a class
Showcase student work by posting finished T-Charts and inviting students to explain their thinking. This public sharing fosters pride, encourages careful work, and reinforces learning for everyone.
Assess understanding with a quick reflection exit ticket
Wrap up the lesson by asking each student to write a one-sentence reflection on what surprised them about the differences or similarities between the traditional myth and The Lightning Thief. This quick check helps you gauge comprehension and plan follow-up lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traditional Mythology vs. The Lightning Thief
How do I compare mythological characters with their portrayals in The Lightning Thief?
To compare characters, use a T-Chart: list each character’s traditional attributes and stories on one side, and their depiction in The Lightning Thief on the other. Highlight symbols, personality traits, and important differences or similarities.
What is a T-Chart and how can I use it for mythology lessons?
A T-Chart is a simple graphic organizer with two columns. For mythology lessons, one column can show the traditional myth version of a character, and the other shows the book’s version. This visual tool helps students easily compare and contrast.
Which mythological characters appear in The Lightning Thief?
The Lightning Thief features many Greek mythological characters, including Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Medusa, Chiron, Ares, Dionysus, the Furies, Charon, Echidna, Chimera, and Procrustes.
What are some key differences between traditional mythology and The Lightning Thief’s character portrayals?
Key differences often include changes in personality, appearance, or role. For example, gods and monsters in The Lightning Thief may act more modern, humorous, or relatable than in ancient myths.
How can students identify important symbols or attributes of mythological characters?
Students should look for iconic symbols (like Zeus’s lightning bolt or Poseidon’s trident) and unique traits described in both myths and the book. Noting these helps show what stayed the same or changed.
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