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will explain that legends have details that are magical or mystical. I will record this on my Characteristics of Legends Chart (Example Chart is provided in Unit Teacher and Student Materials). Magical details are people and events that seem impossible, even if the rest of the story seems realistic and possible. Mystical details are those that have to do with spirits or gods. Mystical details are great mysteries to the world. I will use the familiar legend, (from Lesson 1) The Legend of the Bluebonnet, to discuss the magical and mystical details in the story. For example, in this story, “the Great Spirits” are mystical details—gods that the characters in the story pray to, who will help them in a time of starvation and no rain. Also, when She-Who-Is-Alone burns her doll, the next morning blue flowers cover the land. This is a magical detail in the legend because it is impossible that so many flowers could grow overnight. I will record the title and examples from the text on my chart.

Ask: "How do I identify magical or mystical details in the text?" Students should explain that you look for events that seem impossible or out of the ordinary. You can also look for details that have to do with spirits or gods.

will work together to identify the exaggerated or magical qualities in the first half of the legend, The Legend of Old Befana. For example, we will identify the magical moment when the star grew before Old Befana’s eyes. We know this is not possible because stars do not grow in size when we look at them, even though they can shine more brightly. We will record the title and examples on our chart. We will listen to the second half of The Legend of Old Befana.

will illustrate and describe one magical or mystical detail in The Legend of Old Befana. (Independent Practice Worksheet is provided.) You will use your illustration to explain that legends have magical and mystical details.