Mythological creatures

Students can research, in library or the internet, a mythological creature or god. They can then learn about one they enjoy, and then read a story about that creature or god. The students then can write a creative story on their own featuring that creature or god in an entirely different atmosphere/context from whence it was originally utilized. This can really get students to think constructively out of the box, while still keeping true to the authenticity of the character.