The Odyssey — Teacher Answers
B1 · 50–60 minutes · Classic Literature
This is an original simplified overview of selected episodes, not a quotation or a complete retelling. Explain epic, Cyclops, Sirens and mast. Discuss ancient Greek mythology as part of the literary setting. The full poem contains violence; this overview avoids graphic detail. The linked translation uses Ulysses for Odysseus.
1–2. Goals and reading
Invite predictions from the image. Read aloud, then ask learners to reread for evidence. Homer is the traditional attribution; do not present precise authorship or dates as settled. The ten-year homeward journey follows the ten-year Trojan War, so Odysseus is away for about twenty years in total. This overview omits many episodes and the loss of his crew; it does not imply they all return with him. Books 9, 12 and 23 support the Cyclops, Sirens and family reunion episodes.
3. Vocabulary
1–C; 2–F; 3–B; 4–D; 5–E; 6–A. Original sentences vary.
4. Understanding
- An ancient Greek epic poem.
- Homer.
- Ithaca, his home.
- Ten years after the Trojan War.
- He proudly reveals his name, creating further danger.
- The sailors put wax in their ears. Odysseus has himself tied to the mast.
- Penelope faces men who want to marry her and take his place. Telemachus searches for news of his father.
5. Language focus
- were rowing; heard
- was listening; felt
- was moving; kept
- removed; passed
The fourth sentence uses two completed actions. Past perfect “had passed” is also grammatically acceptable if a learner supplies it, though it is not the focus. These practice sentences are an imagined scene, not quotations.
6. Speaking
- He devises an escape from the Cyclops or plans how to pass the Sirens.
- Revealing his identity allows the Cyclops to call on his father Poseidon to punish him. The overview only states that it creates further danger; do not require knowledge beyond the reading.
- The episode can suggest that attractive offers may be dangerous, or that planning and accepting limits can help. Accept supported interpretations.
7. Writing
Answers vary. Look for a coherent diary or homecoming scene, feelings and a result, with accurate past simple and past continuous. Allow imaginative details and distinguish them from the poem.
8. Puzzle
1. Ithaca. 2. The Cyclops Polyphemus. 3. The Sirens. 4. Penelope. 5. Telemachus. New clues vary.
9–10. Reflection and final response
Look for the goal of returning home, two relevant episodes, and evidence of cleverness alongside a limitation such as pride. Accept different conclusions supported by the overview.
Suggested timing
Goals and prediction: 5 minutes; reading: 10; vocabulary and comprehension: 15; grammar: 10; discussion/game: 5; writing and reflection: 10–15. Select tasks to suit your class.