Grade
Levels: 7 and 8 (This
lesson can be adapted for other grade levels.)
Title:
Santa Claus: The
Man and the Myth
Grade
Levels: 7 and 8 (This
lesson can be adapted for other grade levels.)
Subjects:English
Language Arts
Learner
Outcomes: The
learner will:
Research the facts and myths that surround the legend that we call "Santa Claus."Develop and make a multimedia presentation based on that research.
Duration
of Lesson: 5 hours
Materials:
Books about Santa Claus can be
used to supplement information found on the Internet; however, that is
optional.
Technology
Tools/Courseware:
Computer
Internet access
Presentation Software (PowerPoint, etc.)
Graphic software program (optional)
Means of showing PowerPoint presentations to the entire class (LCD projector, Computer/TV connector)
Teacher
Notes:
A copy of each student's signed Acceptable Use Policy must be on file in the school.Basic instruction in how to develop a PowerPoint presentation is essential for students to create quality work.
Consideration should be given to taking students to the computer lab to do this lesson.
Be sensitive to students who do not observe holidays. An alternative assignment may be necessary.
Procedures:
In this lesson students will research the persona of Santa Claus from the time when he first appeared on the scene until present day. Students should decide which information to use as they develop and then make a PowerPoint presentation to the class.Organize the class into heterogeneous groups to accommodate students of various ability levels. The teacher must decide how many groups there will be, but one group for each available computer is a good arrangement.
Bookmark the following Internet sites to maximize class time:
The Real Saint NicholasInform students of the expectations for the PowerPoint presentation, and tell them to take notes while researching the Internet sites. Their notes should be used as a reference while developing their presentations.
Saint Nicholas - The Legend Begins
The Evolution of Modern Day Santa
Santa Around the World
Brief History of Santa
The Story of Santa Claus
The Many Faces of Santa
Santa Portrait Gallery
Santa's Origins and FAQ'sAnnounce the date that PowerPoint presentations are to be made to the class.
Modifications:
Arrange heterogeneous groups to accommodate students of various ability levels.Follow the school's policy for inclusion.
Refer to individual IEP's.
Provide an alternate assignment for students whose religious beliefs prevent their doing this lesson.
Enrichment
Activity:
Design a web page based on Santa Claus. Include the man who first inspired his presona, his name in other countries, and the myths and legends that surround him.
Evaluation/Assessment:
A PowerPoint Assessment Rubric has been attached for your consideration.
State
and National Standards:
West Virginia IGO's:English Language Arts:National Standards8.26, 8.31, 8.51, 8.58, 8.64, 8.145, 8.154
7.22, 7.57, 7.58, 7.60, 7.61, 7.62, 7.65, 7.169
References:
The Real Saint Nicholas
Saint Nicholas - The Legend Begins
The Evolution of Modern Day Santa
Brief History of Santa
Santa Around the World
The Story of Santa Claus
The Many Faces of Santa
Santa Portrait Gallery
Santa's Origins and FAQ's
PowerPoint Rubric (Created by Susan Alkire at Romney Middle School, Romney, WV)
Authors:
Cindy
Walbrown and
Alma Simpson,
Collins
Middle School, Oak Hill, West Virginia
