"Beowulf" High School Projects
One of the earliest known English texts, "Beowulf" is an epic poem written by an anonymous author in Anglo-Saxon England sometime between the eighth and 11th centuries. "Beowulf" is commonly taught in high schools around the country, and is a tale of good vs. evil. Help your students find the adventure in this classic of literature by giving them classroom projects that will peak their interest and engage them in the story.
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Keep a 'Beowulf' Journal
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Have your students write in a notebook journal each day while you study "Beowulf" together. Each day you can ask the students questions on their thoughts about the tale. Ask questions such as, "What is a hero?" and "What does it mean to be loyal?" and have them write their answers to these questions in their journals.
Movie Heroes
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Have your students find a modern film that lines up with the stages of heroism in the "Beowulf" tale. This activity should be done after they have read the poem completely. Have your students give an oral presentation with a visual aid such as PowerPoint, posters or maps. Comparing the book with a modern movie will assist them in their understanding of "Beowulf."
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Model of Herot
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Herot was the gathering place and mead hall for the characters in the story, and the site of the monster Grendel's attack. Have your students create a map, floor plan or 3-D model of what Herot would look like. Have them use any hidden clues in the story that would assist them in the construction of this project.
"Beowulf" Comic Project
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Have students create and pitch a comic book that follows the tradition of the "Beowulf" story, using the good vs. evil theme as well as the process a hero goes through to become a hero and legend. Have them explain to the classroom why their comic book would be the best way to present an Anglo-Saxon epic poem.
Re-Enactment
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Have your students re-enact scenes from "Beowulf" in a puppet show or skit. You can choose to take the script right from the text or have students use their own words. The argument between Beowulf and Unferth would be an exciting and emotional scene for students to use in this project.
Hero Recommendation
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Have your students construct a letter recommending Beowulf as an epic monster-slayer and hero. Students should use the standard format for a letter of recommendation, but use some of the literary devices found during the Anglo-Saxon period. Tailor the project to your classroom's learning level and needs.
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References
- Photo Credit girl reading a book image by Tammy Mobley from Fotolia.com
