Litha: Ragnarok & World Community
An optional summer unit exploring the end and renewal of the Norse cosmos, plus continued learning adventures.
UU Principle Focus
6th Principle: The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all
☀️ About This Unit
Litha (Summer Solstice) is an optional summer enrichment unit. Use these activities flexibly throughout the summer months:
- • Light structure: No weekly schedule—pick activities that interest you
- • Ragnarok focus: Conclude the Norse mythology cycle with the dramatic end-times story
- • World connections: Compare Norse myths to other world traditions
- • Continued learning: Keep skills sharp while enjoying summer freedom
- • Nature immersion: Summer is perfect for outdoor exploration
Summer Activities
Ragnarok—The Twilight of the Gods
Read and discuss the Norse end-times story. How do endings lead to new beginnings?
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Ragnarok Explained videos
- End of the World myths documentary
- Norse Mythology audiobook finale
The New World After Ragnarok
After destruction comes renewal. Write about hope and new beginnings.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Rebirth myths from around the world
- Nature's Resilience documentary
- Stories of hope
Summer Solstice Science
Why is this the longest day? Explore Earth's tilt and the sun's path.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Summer Solstice Explained
- Sun's Journey documentary
- Astronomy for Kids
World Mythology Connections
Compare Norse myths to Greek, Egyptian, and other world mythologies. Find common themes.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Mythology Connections videos
- World Myths documentary
- Comparative mythology audiobooks
Year-End Portfolio
Compile your best work from the year. Reflect on growth and learning.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Portfolio organization tips
- Reflection journaling
- Celebration of learning
Summer Nature Study
Observe summer wildlife, plants, and weather. Continue your nature journal.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Summer Wildlife videos
- Nature journaling tutorials
- Field guide audiobooks
Math Games and Challenges
Keep math skills sharp with games, puzzles, and real-world applications.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- Math game websites
- Puzzle videos
- Math story audiobooks
Creative Projects
Pursue personal interests: art, writing, building, crafting, or exploring.
📺 "Just Can't" Day Options:
- DIY project videos
- Maker documentaries
- Creative audiobooks
📚 Summer Reading
Norse Mythology
- • Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
- • The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer
- • Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman
- • Magnus Chase series by Rick Riordan
World Mythology
- • D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths
- • Egyptian Myths by Geraldine McCaughrean
- • Treasury of Egyptian Mythology (National Geographic)
- • Tales of Ancient Egypt by Roger Lancelyn Green
☀️ Litha Celebration
- 🟡 Stay up to watch the sunset on the longest day
- 🟡 Build a bonfire and celebrate with family
- 🟡 Gather herbs and flowers at their peak
- 🟡 Create sun wheels or solar symbols
- 🟡 Feast on summer fruits and vegetables
- 🟡 Reflect on the year's learning and growth
- 🟡 Set intentions for the year ahead
🎓 Year-End Reflection
As 4th grade ends, take time to reflect on the journey:
- • What was your favorite Norse myth? Why?
- • Which god or goddess do you relate to most?
- • What new skills did you learn this year?
- • How did the Wheel of the Year connect to your learning?
- • What are you most proud of accomplishing?
- • What do you want to explore in 5th grade?