Ninth Graders Conclude Journey Through The Odyssey by Anabella Mulligan
Ninth-grade students at Melbourne High School wrapped up their study of The Odyssey this past week, marking the end of an epic literary adventure. Under the guidance of their english teachers, students analyzed the themes of heroism, loyalty, and perseverance found in all the stories and poems that came along with this section. Samiyah Evans, one of the students said, “I enjoyed exploring how Odysseus’ long journey mirrored real-life challenges.” The final lesson focussed on connecting the text’s ancient values to modern experiences.
Throughout the unit, students participated in discussions, creative projects, and group readings to better understand Greek mythology and epic storytelling. Samiyah stood out for her thoughtful insights during classes, her detailed reflections also made her stand out. Many students expressed that the story's lessons about courage and reliance resonated with their own lives. The class also watches short film clips to visualize key scenes and deepen comprehension.
As the unit concluded, students prepared for a final assessment that tested both their analytical and creative thinking. Evans said, “I feel proud of how much I learned about literacy themes and symbolism.” The completion of The Odyssey marked not only the end of a major lesson but also the milestone in the student's journey as young scholars.
Caption: Working Together: In a busy classroom, two students, Aubrianna Presley and Samiyah Evans, work together at a table as they focus on all the recent assignments. Focused on completing the assignments they collaborated on class work to strengthen their understanding of the lesson. Pressely said, “The Odyssey has shown me a lot of things and it was fun to learn about.” Photo Credit: Anabella Mulligan