Speaking Of Wolves
Subject: Social Studies, Language Arts
Theme: Wolves and People
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Classroom
OBJECTIVES
Students will be able to:
- list at least three wolf sayings
- describe the origins of common sayings and
expressions using the wolf as their inspiration
METHOD
Students will research common colloquial or
archaic expressions using the wolf and report
on their origins, meanings, and usage.
BACKGROUND
We often unconsciously use common expressions
in everyday language that have been derived from
the animal world. We say that a person has eagle
eyes or we give someone a bear hug. Some expressions
have originated from observations on wolves. Men
sometimes use wolf whistles when directing their
attention to members of the opposite sex. People
are sometimes said to wolf down their food. A
person is described as a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
The study of these expressions, their origins,
and their usage, can tell us a lot about how man
has perceived the wolf over time.
MATERIALS
Access to a library or the Internet
PROCEDURE
Students are given the assignment to find
and research expressions involving the wolf. They
are to look for information on the origins of
these expressions, their meanings, how these expressions
were used, and when they were used.
EXTENTION
Have students try to make up their own wolf
expressions.
Have students research other animal-related sayings
and show how these are used in our language.
Have students make flash cards with animal expressions
and a separate group of cards with the drawn illustrations
of the literal meanings of these expressions.
The students may then exchange cards and match
them to each other.
SOURCE
"Getting to Know the Wolf"
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