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      Developing an understanding of 'Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx'

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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can understand and discuss the main ideas of 'Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx'.

      Key learning points

      1. Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx is a modern myth.
      2. A modern myth incorporates elements from traditional myths.
      3. Some features of a modern myth are mythical creatures, a quest, magical objects and gods and godesses.
      4. Brownstone's Mythical Collection is a collection of modern myths.
      5. Marcy embarks on an adventure and has to overcome a challenge.

      Keywords

      • Myth - a traditional tale explaining a culture's beliefs and customs, often involving gods and supernatural creatures

      • Modern - relating to the present or recent times as opposed to the past

      • Elements - an essential or characteristic part of something

      • Egyptian mythology - a collection of myths from ancient Egypt, which describe the actions of Egyptian gods as a means of understanding the world

      • Adventure - an unusual and exciting or daring experience

      Common misconception

      Children may find it hard to distinguish which features within the story are modern or traditional.

      The illustrations within the story are a powerful tool for guiding students to identify modern versus traditional mythical features.

      Teacher tip

      It would be beneficial to show all illustrations on screen while reading the book to the class, pausing and allowing opportunities to discuss the significance of certain illustrations and objects. You may also want to read the text in advance.

      Equipment

      You will need a copy of the 2019 Flying Eye Books edition of 'Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx', written and illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton, for this lesson.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

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      An illustration of a hijabi teacher writing on a whiteboard