Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Ancient Language Dictionary”

In this activity, students will create a dictionary of words in the Ancient Language and write a diary entry incorporating some of those words.

A unique element of Eragon’s world is the Ancient Language, a special language used to communicate and do magic. In this activity, we will dive deeper into the Ancient Language, exploring its role in the book and its meaning.

Part A:

• Review the text to compile at least 10 examples of words or phrases in the Ancient Language. Write down these words or phrases in your notebook. This will be your “Ancient Language Dictionary.”
• Beside each word or phrase, write down your guess about what it means. Use context clues from the sentences around it.
• Once you have compiled your list, look in the back of the book or online to find the actual translations. Write these down next to your guesses.
• Reflect on how close your guesses were to the actual meanings. Did understanding the meaning of the Ancient Language words change your understanding of the scenes they were used in?