Pre-Show Activity

Engage in reflective writing about a significant artifact in your life to enhance your understanding of An Iliad. Learners of all ages and backgrounds are invited to participate.

Of Shield and Other Artifacts

Activity Preparation

• Supplies:
  • Writing materials (print or digital)
  • An object that holds meaning for you – this could be a gift, heirloom, favorite book, small sculpture, plant, etc.

This activity will take approximately 20 minutes.

---

Learning Sequence

1. Select an object that holds special meaning for you. This could be a gift, heirloom, favorite book, small sculpture, plant, etc. Through guided journaling, you will explore the journey of this artifact through the memories it harnesses, the people it has impacted, and what the future holds for this sacred object. (~5 minutes)
2. Reflect about and write a response to the following questions: (~10 minutes)
   • What are the origins of this object? (Where did it come from? Who made it?) 
   • How did this object find its way to you? (Did you buy it? Receive it? Stumble upon it? Was it divine intervention? Did you make it in a burst of inspiration?) 
   • What purpose does this object serve, or what does it provide? (Does it reflect you? Document a part of your history? Remind you of where you come from? Center you in your purpose?) 
   • What can this object teach others, either in the future or now? (Can it provide a warning? A path forward? Joy? Resistance? A reminder?) 
3. As desired, consider turning your writing into a verse-adjacent format. (~5 minutes) 

---

• This activity aligns with the following standards:
  • Illinois Arts Learning Standards 
    • Anchor Standard 8: Construct meaningful interpretations of artistic work.
    • Anchor Standard 10: Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.
  • Common Core State Standards 
    • CCSS.ELA.W10 Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.

Posted on June 25, 2025 in Learning Guides, Productions