Northeastern Cultures

This article is a fine place to explore the definitions of folklore, folk arts, and folklife. It demonstrates that folklore is a special way of passing on values and information from generation to generation. It also presents an excellent overview of the way folklorists do much of their research. Teachers and students learn techniques for collecting information from “consultants” in their own communities as well as what kind of information a folklorist is interested in. Samples of interviews with farmers and ranchers show how a good interviewer can encourage storytelling. Northeastern Colorado, and in fact, the whole state, is a rich resource for exploring ethnic, regional and cultural heritage as well as occupational and community arts, festivals and foodways. Classroom activities include suggestions for locating people to interview, and for exploring family folk arts. Applications of history standards are addressed and links to other lesson plans included. Written by CCA folklorist Georgia Wier.

Northeastern Colorado Cultures PDF