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The Sixth Grade Mythological Zoo: A cross-curricular project

Source/Author: Amy Cobb, Sixth Grade English Teacher

May 10, 2018

Middle School News

Ancient Bestiary/Gods/Goddesses in Aztec/Mayan, Egyptian, Greek, and Norse Legends and Literature: A cross-curricular project between art, English, science, foreign language, library media, and the sixth grade team.

The sixth-grade mythological zoo is an interdisciplinary project which began in English, social studies, and Spanish classes where students read myths and gained initial background information on beasts, gods, and goddesses of Greek, Egyptian, Aztec/Mayan, and Norse origin. Students chose a beast from one of the cultures, conducted research, and then built their beast in art class.

Upcycle artist Gray Wise visited Shorecrest to demo an animal sculpture process using recycled materials, and shared ideas with the students on how to add details and embellishments - such as hair and wings - to their figures. With lots of plastic bags, masking tape, paint and recycled and found items, the beasts began to take form.

Students then applied what they learned in science class, and added simple circuitry. They had the choice to add lights or motors to make their beasts come alive. Eyes lit up, tails wagged, and dragons breathed fire! The zoo became a truly interactive experience.

Once the beasts were finished, a zoo installation was created. Research papers from English class, beast summaries from Spanish or French class, and math zoo activity sheets were added to the exhibit. Beasts were placed in their habitats, signage was hung, and the zoo opened for visitors. During their English and social studies’ class times for two days, the sixth graders became zookeepers, giving tours to younger Shorecrest students and parents. These presentations allowed the students to show off their magnificent beasts and share what they learned about them.

This year’s beasts were monstrous, mechanical, and magnificent!

Watch a short video about how the beasts were made and wired here: