Myth and Religion - Unit 8, Lesson 2: Orpheus and Eurydice

KS4 lesson for Unit 8:Orpheus and Eurydice, in Component 1: Myth and Religion, of the OCR Classical Civilisation GCSE. The lesson objective is the study of the myth of Orpheus’ journey to the Underworld as told by the Roman poet Ovid, focusing on details of the myth and its plot; portrayal of characters; portrayal of the underworld and how this myth depicts and reflects ancient culture.

Accessible for all ability groups and the resources are easily differentiated for more and less academically able students.

This lesson includes…

• A starter recap quiz on Unit 6: Myths and Symbols of Power, where students are encouraged to use knowledge organisers to help them answer.
• Optional internet research task into individuals in the Underworld and the torment of the damned.
• Study of key characters in the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, with a video resource to support.
• Storyboard summary of the myth with resource and guidance.
• Comprehension questions, based on reading and annotations, with a worksheet to support learning.
• [8] mark practice exam question with success criteria and a modeled start. Peer-marking instructions/criteria also included.
• Study of a visual source (a Roman sarcophagus) and how this reflects the significance of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth.
• Creative written plenary based on the myth.
• Optional video activity and resource based on the Great Greek Myths Amazon Prime series, with resource.

**Please note: **The OCR prescribed literary sources booklet is required to access this lesson plan. This is available to download for free from the OCR website.