Worksheet5: Understanding A Legend Part I: In groups of 3-4 answer the 8 questions below (on the back of this paper or apiece of loose-leaf paper) about the “Legend of the Cedar Tree.” Justthe Facts -
What happenedto the Earth and the Cherokee people when the Creator ended the night?
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What happenedto the Earth and the Cherokee people when the Creator ended the day?
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How did theCreator express his sorrow and regret about the death of the Cherokee people?
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What modern traditionis linked to the cedar tree? Beneaththe Surface -
Why do youthink the Cherokee wanted the Creator to change their environment?
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What is onelesson this legend attempts to teach?
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Do you believethe legend more closely resembles the image of Native Americans as forestmanagers or as “ecologically invisible” inhabitants of the land? Giveevidence to support your answer.
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Based on the legend,what conclusions can you draw about how the Cherokee people felt about theenvironment? Part II:Staying in your same groups you now need to write and perform your own legend. The focusof your legend should be an explanation of the origin of either a tree, plant,or animal from your state. Beforewriting the story, first use the library and/or the internet to research yourtree, plant, or animal. When writing your legendyou should answer the following questions:
a. How and why was the tree, plant, or animal created?
b. What has the tree, plant, or animal meant to the people of your state?
c. What lesson do you hope to teach? Remember that legendsare not based on historical fact, so when creating your own you need to use yourimagination. Although creativity isrequired, keep in mind that your story should try to demonstrate the importanceof the tree, plant, or animal to the environment and the people of your state. Once you have written your legend prepare a short skit for the class (3-5minutes) in which you act out the important scenes of your story. Use props, music, or illustrations to accompany your performance. |
