How the World Was Formed on Turtle’s Back

How the World Was Formed on Turtle's Back Lesson

“How the Earth Was Formed on Turtle’s Back,” is an Onondaga creation story that features a team of vibrant animal characters, who work together to save a young woman’s life and create the world as we know it. This lesson provides numerous opportunities for students to use their bodies and voices to create characters and practice transformation. You may also integrate Language Arts by discussing the importance of personification and character traits in the story.

Grade Level

  • 4th Grade
  • 5th Grade
  • 6th Grade
  • 7th Grade

CONCEPT/SKILL

  • 3 Drama Tools
  • Animals
  • Body
  • Body Gestures
  • Body-Level
  • Body-Line
  • Body-Shape
  • Character
  • Characterization
  • Collaboration
  • Concentration
  • Emotions
  • Imagination
  • Imitation
  • Mood
  • Movement
  • Personification
  • Setting
  • Story Elements
  • Teamwork
  • Transformation
  • Vocal & Nonvocal Sounds
  • Voice

INTEGRATION IDEAS

  • Character Motivation
  • Language Arts
  • Legends
  • Literature
  • Myth
  • Native Americans
  • Personification
  • Story Elements

ROOM SETUP

  • Open