The development of a library-research-activity unit on Greek mythology for the junior high school grades in Newfoundland

• Main Author: Coombs, Clarence
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 1985
• Subjects: Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/4371/; https://research.library.mun.ca/4371/1/Coombs_Clarence.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/4371/3/Coombs_Clarence.pdf

The purpose of the study was to develop a self-contained library-research-activity unit on Greek mythology for the junior high school students in Newfoundland. -- The unit, entitled Greek Mythology, was the result of a number of prescribed steps covered in Part I of the study. First, the textbooks presently in use in Newfoundland schools at the junior high level were examined. The examination showed that not only was there a lack of mythology in the junior high grades, but what was included was given in a piecemeal, incoherent fashion. -- Second, some of the many interpretations or explanations of mythology were discussed because of its influence on ancient arid modern societies. There was also a discussion on the nature of Greek mythology. Specifically, this discussion dealt with the characters, characteristics, and plots commonly found in Greek myths. -- Third, a review of literature of the young adolescents’ intellectual growth, as it relates to their reading habits and interests was conducted. Several studies, spanning the past forty years, on students’ reading habits and interests were also examined. -- Fourth, because of the nature of the subject matter and the interest of young adolescents in tradebooks, the library-research-activity unit was chosen as the best approach for the development of the unit. Taba's model for curriculum development was chosen as the model to follow; therefore, a general summary of the seven steps contained in the model is given. A detailed step-by-step formation of the unit through these seven steps is also included. -- Part II of the study consists of the actual instructional unit which is comprised of individual research activities and group projects, each with its own specific behavioural objectives and explanations. An annotated bibliography, a listing of the books suitable for the completion of the unit, and a list of other related materials are also included.