Proverbs and sayings are the fruit of experience and observation. They express practical truths or a simple perception of everyday life.
Age group: 8-18
In each country, proverbs and sayings provide insights into beliefs and simple truths. Those beliefs were passed down from generation to generation, altered by the wisdom of the times and finally becoming part of culture and education. They are concise and use simple rhymes, metaphors, comparisons or contrasts. They embody our cultural archetypes in a wonderful and colourful way.
How to take part?
Collect proverbs and sayings from your country;
Add a short definition and an example of when they are used;
This can be done with a text, a drawing, a poem, or any means of expression;
Guidelines:
Your proverbs/sayings should be sent in your own language;
Your explanation/story should be written in one of the following languages: English, French or German;
Graphics/artwork/drawings are welcome.
Pedagogical value:
To show pupils how a few words can travel through time and represent local cultures;
To preserve the national culture;
To understand and respect other cultures of Europe;
To integrate traditional oral knowledge in education.
