Cherry Creek High School – CP Mythology to Folklore-Oral Tradition

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

Over the course of the semester, students will explore the dynamics of oral tradition from the ancient world to the modern-day via the story systems of myth and folklore. Through a study of Greek and other mythologies, Homer’s The Odyssey, fairy tales, and urban legend, the course will explore the reasons behind and within our storytelling. Students will examine the historical and social context of mythology and folklore, with a particular focus on the psychological content (i.e. conscious vs. unconscious influence on content, meaning of archetypes as universal patterns within stories, etc.). Students will begin with the Greek system of mythology followed by the exploration of fairy tales collected by the Brothers Grimm, and finish the semester examining the concept of legends and urban legends in recent history as well as in our contemporary world. Throughout the semester, students will also have the opportunity to research and learn about mythology and folklore from a variety of cultures around the world and from throughout time. Students should expect frequent reading assignments as well as assessments such as quizzes, tests, essays, and projects. Juniors must also register for CE English Composition or CP Survey of Composition with this elective CP SCIENCE FICTION (Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror) This senior elective course recognizes and explores the literary merit of these given genres and the mature, thought-provoking ideas that they present. The literary curriculum changes from semester to semester as the students will participate in the selection of titles via a democratic process. Over the course of the semester, the class will read at least one work of each of the genres. Through a series of thought-provoking discussions as well as creative and analytical writing, students will explore the ways these authors analyze society and individuals. Senior Seminar is a rigorous, discussion-based capstone course for collegebound seniors that explores contemporary literature and nonfiction texts— including documentaries, essays, and podcasts. Students refine their analytical and expository writing skills while engaging in seminar discussions that emphasize the 21st-century skills of critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication. The course prepares students for the reading, writing, and discourse expectations of college and beyond.