Native American Legends Activity

	The legend of the red fern became an important part of the theme for the book Where the Red Fern Grows.  While no one knows for sure how certain tales began, most people enjoy hearing and reading them.  In this activity, you will read some Indian legends and will compare the characteristics of such legends.  Then, at the completion of this unit, you will be asked to write a legend of your own.  Who knows?  Perhaps your legend will be told for generations to come!  Have fun!
      Step 1:  Find a partner.
      Step 2:  go to www.geocities.com/mcookla/legends.html
      Step 3:  Read all of the information written on this web page.
      Step 4:  Click on the "group's link" that I have assigned to you.
      Step 5:  After reviewing some of the legend's titles, choose two legends  
               that interest both you and your partner.
      Step 6:  Read the complete legend.  
      Step 7:  Take notes about each legend. Use these questions to guide you.

Consider these questions to help you discover a pattern in the legends you read:
1. What parts of the legend seem unrealistic?
2. Are there any parts of the legend that seem realistic?
3. What does the legend attempt to explain?
4. What are the personality traits of the characters in the legend?
5. Are there any supernatural powers presented in the legend?
6. Why do you think people create and tell legends?
7. What conclusions can you draw about the people who tell these legends?
8. What common elements can you find from the legends you have read?
9. What characteristics do you feel a legend should have?
































Native American Legend Activity
Helpful Note Sheet

Name: ____________________________
Period: ______ Group Number:  ______

Title of first legend:
Characteristics:



















Title of second legend: 
Characteristics:



















**If you still have time, you can click on the link labeled "Just for Fun" and look around.  You can also read other legends and look around the website.