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I. Introduction to Mythology Unit/ World Studies Needs Assessment A. Rational for project: The mythology project is an ongoing compilation of activities designed to engage learners to become active participants in their own quest for knowledge. The unit stems from a need to actively update curriculum to keep up with ever changing technology. This unit is has been designed to provide a vehicle for student research, analysis, comparisons, response and assessment. It is basically an open file cabinet accessible to all with a sequential path of inquiry that builds on previous skills and content. B. What needs are addressed: The internet mythology unit addresses several key issues by: 1. Creating an individual paced learning environment where students in detracted environments can meet and exceed their own expectations of learning.

2. Fulfilling the Illinois State Education Goals and Standards for English and Social Studies on a number of levels.

3. Providing immediate feedback in situations where the "moment" might be lost if not for several levels of stimuli.[ Visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and interpersonal.]

4. Meeting the districts curriculum goals concerning content and skills necessary to be successful for job placement and/or college entrance and to accept responsibility as a productive member of society.

C. Who will it serve: This mythology unit will serve first year students in Interdisciplinary Learning Teams, World Studies classes, and independent English and/or World History classes. It may also be used as an independent unit to supplement any course where the content and activities are applicable. D. Why is this needed: The unit is a direct result of the increased level of availability of information in our society. It stems from the genuine desire of the parents, teachers and students to become life-long learners who value sequence and consistency in delivering instruction. The instruction should be in a manner flexible enough to engage students who are heterogeneously grouped. Many of the students coming into the Morton School District are at varied reading levels yet have the ability for higher order thinking skills. Those students who need more help will be able to access their peers or the teacher for some type of assistance. This type of unit enables the teachers to act as a guide as the student becomes the focal point in the education process. E. Philosophical and theoretical basis for unit: The internet mythology unit is expandable, flexible and adjustable enough to accommodate all learners at their own pace. It is truly holistic in the sense that myths from around the world are explored and a common theme is drawn from those myths. The students take responsibility for exploring and analyzing myths they choose. There are certain connections to Latin American myths that may be of particular attention to the students at Morton East High School. However, an attempt has been made so that no one culture is over-represented and a balance of myths from around the globe can be accessed.

The unit is hands on and in many ways provides immediate response to inquiries and assessments. The reinforcements are often immediate and can be pursued even further if there is an interest. An open inquiry with a program, schedule and an menu to choose from all encourage students in non-threatening ways to explore and even create. There is a certain amount of factual content in the unit but the theme of the unit is the connections the students can make from one culture to the next, eventually including their own personal lives.