1. Vlad the Impaler and Dracula Research Module Mrs. Grayson Supernatural Literature Fall 2008

2. Essential Question Did you know that Bram Stoker based his character of Dracula on a real historical figure?

3. Student Activity Gather information from the four websites provided about Vlad the Impaler. Record some of his horrific acts, military battles, and other facts about him. Organize your information on the following data sheet: Click here for data sheet

4. Internet Sources Explore the following sites and record information on your data sheet: Vlad the Impaler Homepage Dracula's Info Page Vlad's History Dracula's Homepage

5. Assessment Activity A historical fiction story is a mixture of historical facts and created characters. Write a historical fiction short story based on exploits of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Bram Stokers Dracula. Your story should be at least 750 words, typed, and double spaced. Your story will be graded using the following rubric: Click here for rubric

6. Enrichment Activities Check out these websites to learn more about vampiric creatures from other cultures. The Vampyre: His Kith and Kin Chupacabra Vampyrus Chupacabra?

7. Teacher Pages – Standards Addressed E4-1.8Read independently for extended periods of time for pleasure. E4-2.2Compare/contrast information within and across texts to draw conclusions and make inferences. E4-2.3Analyze informational texts for author bias (including word choice, the exclusion and inclusion of particular information, and unsupported opinion). E4-2.8Read independently for extended periods of time to gain information. E4-3.1Use context clues to determine the meaning of technical terms and other unfamiliar words. E4-4.1Organize written works using prewriting techniques, discussions, graphic organizers, models, and outlines. E4-4.2Use complete sentences in a variety of types (including simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex). E4-4.4Use grammatical conventions of written Standard American English to clarify and enhance meaning. E4-4.5Revise writing to improve clarity, tone, voice, content, and the development of ideas. E4-4.6Edit for the correct mechanics and usage of written Standard American English. E4-5.2Create narratives (for example, personal essays, memoirs, and narrative poems) that use descriptive language to enhance voice and tone. E4-5.3Create descriptive pieces (for example, personal essays, travel writing, or restaurant reviews) that use sensory images and vivid word choice. E4-6.2Use direct quotations, paraphrasing, or summaries to incorporate into written, oral, auditory, or visual works the information gathered from a variety of research sources. E4-6.4Use vocabulary (including Standard American English) that is appropriate for the particular audience or purpose. E4-6.5Create written works, oral and auditory presentations, and visual presentations that are designed for a specific audience and purpose.

8. Teacher Pages – Use of Research Module This research module will be used as the introduction to our vampire novel unit. Students may choose to read their Vlad stories aloud on the due date. They will be judged by the class; one story will be named as most authentic Vlad story and win a prize, most likely a copy of a vampire novel.

9. Teacher Pages – Contact Info Jennifer Grayson English/Drama Teacher James Island Charter H.S. 1000 Fort Johnson Road Charleston, SC 29412 (843) 762-6233 jennifer_grayson@charleston.k12.sc.us