This research activity analyzes the claim of the Egyptian Cinderella. Cinderella is an European fairy tale first recorded in 1697 by French author Charles Perrault. You probably know the storyevil stepsisters, fairy godmother, prince charming, glass slipper. But what if you heard that this classic story actually began as a far-older legendone from ancient Egypt? This is a claim that appears many places online. But it is a factor a fraud?

In this investigative activity your students will...

• Research:Read a 2-page version of the story"Rhodopis: the Egyptian Cinderella,"which is presented in many places online as an authentic Egyptian legend.
• Comparethis version against the story as it was originally recorded by the Greek historian Strabo in 7 B.C.
• Analyzeclaims that the European fairy tale "Cinderella" was inspired by an ancient Egyptian story.
• Declare a Verdict:Is the idea the Egyptian Cinderella fact or fraud?

A 4-page activity sheet walks students through this process, requiring written responses. Further questions include:

• The importance of determining the validity of online information by researching original sources
• Identifying misinformation in the digital age
• A definition of "clickbait"

This assignment pairs well with the popular storybook:The Egyptian Cinderellaby Shirley Climo.Note:This is an Amazon Affiliate link.