Read the Prereading information on page 453. Then reread the information about myths in the Elements of the Oral Tradition on page 452. Next, look at the title and artwork on pages 454 and 455 and read Art Smart on page 455. Finally, find a partner and make a list of things that might be included in a creation myth.
Read the myth aloud slowly with your partner. Stop to discuss what people and events look like as you read. For instance, after the first line, stop to discuss how you and your partner picture the ancient chief. Compare other images you have as you read with those your partner has. When you finish reading, go back, reread the poem, and illustrate the main events in the myth.
If you are having difficulty visualizing the events in the story, skim the myth and make a list of the animals included in the myth. Then go back and read the myth, summarizing what each animal does to save the chief’s wife.
Discuss what happened in the “The Creation,” and share your illustrations of scenes from the myth.