Grade 2 - Greek Myths

Greek Myths: Supplemental Guide 321

7B-3

Dear Family Member,

Today, your child heard a read-aloud about the most famous hero in Greek mythology,

Hercules [HER-uh-kleez: this is the Greek pronunciation]. Your child will also hear about

the riddle of the Sphinx and the story of Atalanta, a swift-footed huntress who refused to

marry.

Below are some suggestions for activities that you may do at home to reinforce what

your child is learning about Greek myths over the next several days.

1. Hercules

Using the activity page included with this letter, have your child share with you what

s/he has learned about Hercules. (Over the next several days your child will hear about

two adventures of Hercules: his fi ght with the Nemean lion and his search for the golden

apples.)

2. Sayings and Phrases: Back to the Drawing Board

Your child will learn the saying “back to the drawing board.” If someone “goes back

to the drawing board,” it means that s/he has tried something and failed the fi rst time, so

s/he has to try again (or go back to the drawing board to think of another plan). Ask your

child how this saying relates to the adventures of Hercules. Try to use this saying the next

time something doesn’t work out as planned the fi rst time.

3. The Riddle of the Sphinx

“What is it that walks on four feet in the morning, on two feet at noon, and on three

feet in the evening?” This is the riddle your child will hear in the myth, “Oedipus and the

Riddle of the Sphinx.” Have your child tell you the riddle and share the answer with you

after you have guessed the answer. If you know of any other riddles, share them with your

child.

4. Read Aloud Each Day

Please continue to read to your child or have your child read to you each day.

Be sure to let your child know how much you enjoy hearing about the Greek myths

s/he has learned at school.