Inspired by: Farther - Week 2

Inspired by Grahame Baker-Smith's evocative writing, students delve into the nuanced use of modal verbs and adverbs that express varying degrees of possibility. They explore how 'would' functions as both the past tense of 'will' and as a conditional modal verb, examining its use in sentences that reflect past activities and hypothetical scenarios. The word 'until' is scrutinized for its role in altering the meaning of a sentence, prompting a shift in the narrative. Students are encouraged to craft their own creative sentences beginning with "If I could fly, I would…" drawing inspiration from beach-themed illustrations. This activity not only enhances their understanding of modal verbs but also ignites their imagination.

The mythical tale of Daedalus and Icarus offers a rich context for students to increase their familiarity with a wide range of literature, especially myths from diverse cultures and traditions. By comparing the illustration of a father in a classical pose with the mythical figure of Daedalus, students engage in a discussion about the representation of father-son relationships in literature. They listen to or read the Greek myth and draw parallels between the characters, deepening their appreciation of the narrative and its themes. Additionally, students are challenged to précis the story, condensing the text while maintaining its essence, which sharpens their summarization skills. The task of imagining Daedalus's speech to an expectant crowd further develops their recognition of vocabulary and structures suited to formal speech and writing, as they consider the impact of word choices in conveying the character's determination and vision.