Exercises Using Proverbs
Along with reading mystery novels and funny
one-liners, using proverbs is an excellent method of
assessing comprehension. Though there are some
proverbs that are not easily understood (perhaps by
anyone), they will nonetheless start the thinking
process and can be used as a springboard to other
exercises. The reading and analysis of
proverbs exposes the child/student to wisdom boiled
down into a sound bite that may stick with them for
their lifetime. Though perhaps less
inspirational, they might just serve as a prompt for
an analytical essay. Proverbs also provide a
window into the mores and values of various
cultures; one can compare the proverbs of one
culture to others to see which maxims (or the
sentiments they impart) are universal, and which are
unique to specific cultures. Finally, since
many proverbs have another proverb that contradicts
the first, they can serve as a good starting point
for thinking about morality and if folk wisdom is
really wise in all instances.