STUDY GUIDE FOR

MYTHS, LEGENDS,

FABLES & FAIRY TALES

Key Words & Definitions

Reality Story - a story that could happen with people, animals and events that are possible in real life

Fantasy Story - a story about things that can’t really happen and usually includes people or things that don’t really exist

Fable - a fantasy story that teaches a moral lesson

Legend - a fantasy story that is handed down from one generation to the next --- people often think it is true, but it cannot be proved

Myth - a fantasy story created to explain a mystery of nature that often involves a supernatural being

Fairy Tale - a fantasy story about magical creatures

Moral - a lesson that teaches you an idea of right behavior

Folktale - a true folktale is a fantasy story that circulates by word of mouth. The words change a little every time it is told

Follow-Up Activity

Write the following words on the chalkboard.

Reality Story

Myth

Legend

Fable

Fairy Tale

Then on 5 index cards list one type of story per card. Divide your students into 5 groups. Then with the cards face down have each group select one card. Using the type of story listed on the card have each group write and then act out their story. The other students in the class must then try and figure out which type of story was written and performed.