Abstract
Proverbs, sayings that give advice or offer insights about life, are found in all countries and cultures. They are used in societies with writing systems and in those whose communications rely on oral traditions. Proverbs are concise, some rhyme, several use alliteration, and many are metaphorical. They can be found in ancient and contemporary literature. This article discusses the multicultural nature of proverbs and gives examples from various locales. The article also illustrates how proverbs lend themselves to interdisciplinary literacy integration. The use of proverbs in implementing specific grade-level Common Core State Standards is addressed. Resources for proverb study are suggested throughout the article, and two appendices are included for additional information on the topic.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Bonnie (2013) "Proverbs: Wisdom of the Ages in Contemporary Literacy Instruction" e-Journal of Balanced Reading Instruction 1(1), article 5. Available at http://digitalcommons.lsu.edu/jblri/vol1/iss1