A Viking We Will Go!

Families,

Today in third grade we embarked on one of my favorite units of the year- Vikings! We began our exploration by looking at Viking Geography- real and mythical. Our focus for the first part of this unit is on the Viking mythologies. 
The Viking legends begin with the Norse Creation myth and the formation of the 9 worlds. One of the worlds, Hel, is ruled by the goddess Hel. It is the land of the dead. Some students were surprised that we were using this particular word in class. I pointed out that the Norse 'Hel' is spelled with one 'L' (and is not the 'bad word' with two LLs). Also, in Viking lore, Hel is not a scary place but simply where all people who die, with the exception of the warriors who go to Valhalla, go after life. I encouraged students who had more questions on this topic to go home and discuss it with their families. 

On December 20th we will end our unit with a traditional Viking Yule celebration (feast). As we learn about this time of year, around the winter solstice, and the Viking traditions, we will be looking at how many of these traditions are similar to modern Christian traditions. It is my intention and focus of learning to examine the Viking culture, their beliefs and behaviors. We look at these in a historical perspective and touch upon modern similarities only to aid students in making connections to their own lives. If you have any questions or concerns over the topics to be discussed, I am happy to allow parents to preview materials, answer any questions you have, and welcome any expertise or input that you may have to add. 

Upcoming Dates!

Dec. 1st 

   HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

Join in the Holiday Spirit at CHPCS!

Featuring local crafters, artists, businesses, and student creations!

15301 SE 92nd Ave, Clackamas

Saturday, December 1st, 9am-4pm 

Dec. 3rd

   Please bring an old baseball hat that you don't want back in its original condition. We are making Viking helmets and the hats will be ALTERED. Color does not matter- they will be covered, too!

Dec. 8th  

  Barnes and Noble Book Fair and Core Knowledge Showcase (time tba) @ Clackamas Town Center

Dec. 20th

  Viking Yule Feast 11:00-12:00

Dec 21-January 6th

 Winter Vacation- No School

Have a wonderful week! Thank you for reading all the way to the bottom! Please right "longboat" in your child's planner and they will receive a ticket tomorrow :)

Ms. Mahn