ELACC11-12W3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using

effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.

Origin Myth Assignment

Just as the Native Americans started the first American literature with the passing down of origin myths, you will
now do the same. Your origin myth will explain the creation of some aspect of the natural world using many of the
same elements as Native American myths.

Directions: You will choose one topic from the following to create your own myth. Your writing must
be in narrative format, including the use of personified animals and/or elements of the
natural world (earth, fire, wind, water).

Write a myth to explain why we are born and why we die.

Write a myth to explain why people are different colors.
Write a myth to explain where human beings came from.
Write a myth to explain why the sun rises and sets

Expectations: Your final draft must be four to six paragraphs long, written in MLA format, typed in 12point font (Times New Roman or Arial, double-spaced) or written neatly in black or dark blue ink, with
little to no grammatical or spelling errors.

Due date: _______________________________________________________________

Origin Myth Rubric

Written Origin Myth
Meets minimum length
Explains origin of Earth or humans
Includes use of worldly elements
Explanation
Paragraph of at least 7-10 sentences
Defends validity of your origin myth
Explains roles of animals, elements, and spirits
Explains value
English Conventions
Punctuated correctly
Free of spelling errors
Free of grammatical errors
General Effort and Creativity

Origin myth is valid yet creative

Appears as though student put in a valid effort

________ / 50

________ / 20

________ / 20

________ / 10