1. The Earth on Turtle’s Back
Onondaga- Northeast Woodlands
Retold by Michael J. Caduto and Joseph Bruchac

2. About the Selection
This myth from the Onondaga people relates a story about the creation of the world. In this version, the Earth forms as an offshoot of a celestial place called Skyland.

3. Literary Analysis
The origin myth can be seen as a mixture of science and religion – they explain how the world and the things in it came to be.
Read the first sentence. How do the opening words of this story identify it as an origin myth?

4. Reading Strategy: Recognizing Cultural Details
We will read the second and third paragaphs aloud.
Identify the cultural details or topics that appear in this passage.
Note the references to marriage, childbirth, respect for age, and the role of dreams.

5. Reading Strategy Questions
What do the Chief’s words to his wife tell you about the beliefs of the Onondaga?
What does the Skyland Chief’s wife dream?
In Oral Literature, why might characters have generic names like “Loon” or “Muskrat?”

6. Critical Reading
In your Reading section of your notebook, respond to the Critical Reading Questions #1-5 on page 20.