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Everything Christmas Vol 2 Christmas Around the World Iran-Wales

Intelligent Australia Productions

First published in 2005 by Intelligent Australia Productions

© Ron Shaw 2005

ISBN 0-9756975-3-6 9780975697535

IAP 002

Intelligent Australia Productions PO Box 670 Hillarys, WA 6923 Australia

Tel: (08) 9307 8365 Fax: (08) 9402 2339 Email: [email protected] This book is dedicated to:

Paul and Celine Ador and Claire Martin and Eliane

Intelligent Australia Productions is committed to raising standards in Literacy and Numeracy in Australian schools.

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©Intelligent Australia Productions 1

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Acknowledgements

Intelligent Australia Productions thanks the following individuals and organisations for permission to use text and/or graphics from their websites.

Bill Egan, Christmas Historian

http://christmas-world.freeservers.com

Brian Muntz

http://www.the-north-pole.com/thankyou2.html

Stephen Henrik http://www.kidsdomain.com http://www.kaboose.com/corporate/linktous.html

Liz http://www.thekoala.com

Intelligent Australia Productions is committed to raising standards in Literacy and Numeracy in Australian schools.


Teachers’ Notes 3

Christmas in Iran 4

Christmas in Iraq 6

Christmas in Ireland 8

Christmas in Italy 10

Christmas in Jamaica 14

Christmas in Japan 16

Christmas in Mexico 18

Christmas in The Netherlands 20

Christmas in Nicaragua 22

Christmas in Norway 24

Christmas in Poland 26

Christmas in Romania 30

Christmas in Russia 32

Christmas in Wales 36

For your Christmas cards or classroom walls 38

Answers 41


In collaboration with Bill Egan, the world renowned Christmas historian, we are delighted to bring you Christmas Around the World Iran-Wales, volume 2 of the ‗Everything Christmas‘ series. ‗Everything Christmas‘ is aimed at students in the 10-14 age group. Questions, exercises and activities are framed to address student outcomes in English and SOSE. Teachers and their students will find this book informative, stimulating, thought provoking and challenging. The book has many illustrations, many of which -especially if coloured- will result in attractive worksheets, ideal for a classroom Christmas display. The best way to use this book is: Distribute copies of page to every student. Students (silently) read the text and exercises. Open up for class discussion, clarification, questions etc. Set children to work. Correct sheets and discuss answers.

We trust you will gain as much from using the book as we did in compiling it. Wishing all teachers and students the compliments of the Christmas season. Ron Shaw and Jacqueline Rey authors

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Christmas In Iran Iran, formerly Persia, is the land where the Three Wise Men are believed to have lived when Jesus was born. Today however the main religion in Iran is not Christianity but Islam.

Christians in Iran begin fasting from animal products (food and drink derived from animals, including birds) on December 1st. This is called the Little Fast (the Big Fast occurs during Lent, the six weeks preceding Easter).

After Church service on December 25th Iranians enjoy Christmas dinner which they call the Little Feast. A traditional dish is a chicken stew called harasa which is cooked in large quantities and lasts several days. Your Thoughts and Ideas 1. Christian Iranians begin fasting from animal products on December 1st. How many animal products can you think of? …………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………………………………………..……

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2. See if you can un-jumble this sentence: Persia came Wise called Men was Iran Three then from The which

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…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………. 3. How much longer is the Big Fast than the Little Fast? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………. 4. Make an excellent sentence of at least 10 words beginning “Harasa is…… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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SSkkeettcchh ooff aann IIrraanniiaann ffaammiillyy eennjjooyyiinngg hhaarraassaa aatt CChhrriissttmmaass ddiinnnneerr..

**For Fast Finishers: Write a paragraph saying all you know about the Three Wise Men and what they did.


Christmas In Iran

Christmas time in Iran is known as the Little Fast. That‘s because for the first 24 days of December, a fast is observed, during which no meat, eggs, milk, or cheese is eaten. It is a time of peace and meditation; a time for attending services at the church.

At dawn on Christmas Day, the people attend a church service and it is only after this that they are permitted to break their fast. A feast is begun and plenty of meat is prepared for the Christmas dinner.

Many boys and girls in Iran have never heard of Santa Claus, so they do not exchange gifts at Christmas time. But they do receive new clothes, which they proudly wear for the duration of the happy Christmas week. Your Thoughts and Ideas 1. Write in your own words the meanings of the following:

i. a fast is observed …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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ii. a time of peace and meditation …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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iii. permitted to break their fast …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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2. Although no gifts are exchanged Christmas week is still a happy one for Iranian Christians. Can you think of at least two reasons for this?

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3. When fasting, people need to call upon certain qualities of character. One of these is self-discipline. Say how self-discipline is needed during fasting. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….……………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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4. Christians in Iran spend much of December meditating and contemplating peace. What ‘peace thoughts’ might they have? (i.e. what might they do to spread the message of peace?). …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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Christmas In Iraq In Iraqi Christian homes an unusual ceremony is held in the courtyard of the home on Christmas Eve. One of the children in the family reads the story of the Nativity from an Arabic Bible. The other members of the family hold lighted candles, and as soon as the story has been read a bonfire is lit in one corner of the courtyard. The fire is made of dried thorns and the future of the house for the coming year depends upon the way the fire burns. If the thorns burn to ashes, the family will have good fortune. While the fire is burning, a psalm is sung. When the fire is reduced to ashes, everyone jumps over the ashes three times and makes a wish. On Christmas day a similar bonfire is built in the church. While the fire burns the men of the congregation chant a hymn. Then there is a procession in which the officials of the church march behind the bishop, who carries an image of the infant Jesus upon a scarlet cushion. The long Christmas service always ends with the blessing of the people. The bishop reaches forth and touches a member of the congregation with his hand, putting his blessing upon him. That person touches the one next to them, and so on, until all have received the ―Touch of Peace."

Your Thoughts and Ideas 1. What would be two reasons why Iraqis would ensure that the thorns they collect are dry and flammable? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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2. Do you think there is any reason in the passage to suggest that Iraqi Christians are superstitious? Support your answer with an example. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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3. Show your artistic talents in the boxes.

JJuummppiinngg oovveerr tthhee AAsshheess TThhee BBlleessssiinngg ooff tthhee PPeeooppllee

**For Fast Finishers: A child (and not a parent) reads the story of the Nativity. Write down reasons why this could be.


Christmas In Iraq Research

Iraq is predominantly an Islamic nation. Christians are in the minority. Compare the two religions.

Christianity Islam Supreme Being: Supreme Being:

Prophet: Prophet:

Age of this religion: Age of this religion:

Christians’ Book: Muslims’ Book:

Place of Worship: Place of Worship:

Dress/Clothing: Dress/Clothing:

Major Observances/Festivals/Traditions: Major Observances/Festivals/Traditions:

Rules/Laws/Values: Rules/Laws/Values:

Six countries where Christianity is the major religion:

Six countries where Islam is the major religion:

Christian Bishop

Muslim Woman


Christmas in Ireland The old Christmas greeting ―Nollaig Shona Dhuit‖ which is ―Merry Christmas‖ in the Irish Gaelic language, is still taught in schools in Eire, the Irish Republic.

It is traditional to give gifts before the holidays to people who perform services during the year, for example to the milkman who delivers milk bottles to the door.

During December people bake Christmas cakes, puddings and mince pies. Hospitality is a way of life in Ireland, and anyone who visits the house, is entertained with tea and cakes, especially during the holidays.

Trees are decorated with a star or an angel on top. Children put a stocking or a pillowcase at the bottom of their beds for Santa Claus. Gifts usually include an apple, an orange and chocolate coins. December 26th is celebrated as St. Stephen's Day in Eire

and is a public holiday. A wren supposedly betrayed St. Stephen when he was in hiding. St Stephen was then caught and executed. On St. Stephen's Day young men in extravagant dress, sometimes wearing masks, parade noisily through the streets in the Wren Boys' Procession. They carry a long pole on top of which is attached a holly bush. The bush supposedly contains a captured wren. The young men beg for treats, supposedly for St Stephen.

Some Questions for You: answer each question with a complete sentence

1. What is the name of Ireland’s original language? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

2. Apart from the milkman who else might receive gifts from grateful Irish householders?

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…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………. 3. In your own words explain the statement Hospitality is a way of life in Ireland.

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…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………. 4. What do you think is meant by extravagant dress?

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5. Do a sketch of the Wren Boys’ Procession.

**For Fast Finishers: A wren supposedly betrayed St. Stephen when he was in hiding.

As birds can‘t talk how might this betrayal have occurred?


Christmas in Ireland

Read the passage on the previous page to find answers to the clues.

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Across 1. 3rd word of Gaelic Christmas greeting. 3. A bush used by the Wren Boys. 4. Face coverings worn by the Wren boys. 8. Rich, filling desserts. 9. This is made of flour, sugar, eggs and butter. 11. Irish children leave chocolate _ _ _ _ _ for Santa. 13. On St. Stephen‘s Day the Wren Boys make a lot of _ _ _ _ _. 14. Children put their Christmas stockings at the bottom of their _ _ _ _ . (plural) 15. A fruit left by the Irish for Santa. 16. Hot beverage consumed with cake. 17. This bird betrayed St. Stephen.

Down 2. St. Stephen‘s Day in Eire is a _ _ _ _ _ _ _. 5. Often seen on top of an Irish Christmas tree.

6. Middle word of Irish Christmas greeting. 7. In December, some Irish bake _ _ _ _ _ pies. 8. Left on the bed for Santa to put toys in. 10. The Irish Republic. 12. One of these is carried by the Wren Boys. 14. What the Wren Boys do to obtain treats.

**For Fast Finishers: Hospitality is a way of life in Ireland.

What does this tell you about Irish people? (write a sentence or two)


Christmas in Italy

Red, white, and green are the colours of Italy's national flag, and they are also the traditional Christmas colours. It may not be a surprise, then, that Christmas probably originated in Italy.

The famous Christmas Nativity scene certainly originated in Italy. St. Francis of Assisi asked a man named Giovanni Vellita of the village of Greccio to create a manger scene. The mass that St. Francis then performed in front of this early Nativity scene inspired awe and devotion in all who saw it.

In A.D. 274, Emperor Aurelian decreed December 25th as the date for the Roman Christians’ Nativity feast. The feast would celebrate the birth of Jesus, God's ‘true light’, sent to dispel darkness in the world.

Christmas Eve is a time for viewing Italy's artistic and elaborate manger scenes, or Cribs. They consist of figurines, in clay or plaster, of the infant Jesus, Mary and Joseph. An ox and ass are nearby because legend has it that they warmed the child with their breath. Individual artisans create their own intricate Nativity landscapes. There may be grottoes, small trees, lakes, rivers, the lights of Bethlehem in the background, angels hung from wires, and occasionally, even local heroes. The most beautiful Cribs are set up in churches, especially in Naples. There is often a contest between churches of the same town for the best Crib. People go from church to church to view and compare the Nativity scenes.

Your Thoughts and Ideas

1. Italy’s flag is red, white and green. What three things to do with Christmas provide us with the colours red, white and green? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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2. The mass performed by St. Francis inspired awe and devotion in all who saw it. Explain what this means. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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3. Sketch your own Nativity scene after gaining ideas from paragraph 4.

**For Fast Finishers:

There is often a contest -between churches of the same town- for the best Crib.

What could be some advantages and disadvantages of such a contest?


Christmas in Italy Common throughout Italy at Christmas time are the Christmas sweets: panettone (cake filled with candied fruit), torrone (nougat) and panforte (gingerbread) all served with hazelnuts, honey and almonds. Peasant folklore says that to eat nuts enhances the fertility of the earth and assists in the increase of flocks and family. In ancient Rome, honey was offered at this time of year so that the New Year would be sweet.

Children anxiously await a visit from la Befana who brings gifts for the good and punishment for the bad. According to legend, the three wise men stopped during their journey and asked an old woman for food and shelter. She refused them and they continued on their way. Within a few hours the woman had a change of heart but the Magi (wise men) were long gone. La Befana still wanders the earth searching for the Christ Child. She is depicted in various ways: as a fairy queen, a crone, or a witch. Your Thoughts and Ideas 1. What is meant by peasant folklore? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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2. After reading the second paragraph what would be some words you would use to describe la Befana? Give reasons for choosing these words. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………….

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3. Write about a Christmas encounter between a child and la Befana. Your short story has been started for you.

It is Christmas time in Italy. …………………………………………………………….…………………………………………

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Christmas in Italy

Part 1: La Befana: The Witch of Christmas

The legend of la Befana began thousands of years ago and, to this day, forms a tradition practised by Italian children and their families. As the story goes, the Three Wise Men left their country bearing special gifts of gold, incense and myrrh for the new-born Jesus Christ. They were guided by a star across many countries. At every village they passed, people ran to meet them and accompany them on their journey.

But there was one old woman who did not join the Three Wise Men. She claimed to be too busy with her housework and promised to join them later when she had time. The next day, she realized her mistake and frantically ran after the Wise Men with gifts for the child, still clutching her broom. But it was too late – the three travellers were long gone.

Ever since then the old woman has been known as ―la Befana‖ (the witch). On the eve of January 6th, la Befana flies from house to house on her old broomstick and delivers all the gifts she didn‘t give to the Holy Child to good girls and boys. She wears a black shawl over a dress dirty with soot from the chimneys she climbs down to deliver her gifts. For the good children she brings sweets, toys and books while those who‘ve been naughty can expect onions, garlic and coal. In modern-day Italy some shops sell carbone or black rock candy that actually looks like pieces of coal.

Many people believe in la Befana‘s existence, while others believe it is a fanciful story created for children. But the question of la Befana‘s existence doesn‘t really matter. Either way she still manages to strengthen family bonds through an exchange of gifts.

Answer these questions on a piece of paper or in your book. (answer in complete sentences). 1. In the opening sentence of the passage what is meant by the word legend? 2. What is another word for bearing? (line 2) 3. Why did the old woman run frantically after the Wise Men? 4. Would you say that la Befana is a good witch or a bad witch? Write a few sentences to justify your answer. 5. Is la Befana someone who children should be afraid of? Explain your answer. 6. Why do you think la Befana leaves coal for badly behaved children? 7. What is the meaning of the word fanciful? 8. What is meant by family bonds? 9. Write a humorous short story (1/2 -

3/4 page) about an encounter between la Befana and Santa Claus.


How many adjectives can you think of to describe la Befana?


Christmas in Italy

Part 2: La Befana: The Witch of Christmas

Chant Used by Italian Children (translated)

La Befana comes at night In tattered shoes Dressed in the Roman style Long live la Befana!!

She brings cinders and coals To the naughty children She brings sweets and lots of gifts To the good children

Using descriptive words (adjectives) say what is happening in the picture at the bottom.

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Christmas in Jamaica

The Christmas carols sung in Jamaica are similar to those of most Christian nations that celebrate Christmas, songs like Silent Night, O' Come All Ye Faithful, etc. As Jamaica is the island where reggae music originated, some of the songs are sung in reggae rhythm style. Because of their popularity, you may hear many of the reggae versions of popular carols playing on the radio and at Christmas parties in December.

One of the most telling signs of Christmas in Jamaica is the food. Mixed fruits, which are marinated in wine for months, are used to bake the ever-popular Christmas Fruit cake. The Christmas drink of Jamaica is the delicious Sorrel (made from sorrel sepal - a meadow plant-, cinnamons, cloves, sugar, orange peel and a little white rum). It can be found everywhere and is normally served over ice.

The Jamaican Christmas dinner is a feast of all feasts with mouth-watering foods such as rice and peas, roast chicken or duck, ox tails and curried goat, ham, roast beef or pork.

1. Write a sentence containing all of these words

reggae Christmas Jamaica listen carols

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2. Now do the same with these words

Sorrel ice Jamaica drink rum everywhere

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3. What do you think is meant by the expression ‘feast of all feasts’?

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4. Several foods are mentioned in the final paragraph. Rank them according to your taste.

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How many words of 4 or more letters can you make from Christmas in Jamaica?


Christmas in Jamaica

Although Jamaica is an island that has never seen snow, nor has houses that boast chimneys, Santa and his gifts are very much a part of Christmas tradition.

The Johnkano celebrations, a parade and festival of masked, dancing musicians, which was brought to Jamaica by the African slaves, is seen in many parts of Jamaica. Santa, riding on a donkey-drawn cart, is part of every parade.

In the top space sketch a scene from the Johnkano celebrations. In the smaller spaces tell how a Jamaican Christmas differs from Christmas in a ‘cold’ country. (write small).

Weather/Climate Jamaica

Cold country

Environment Jamaica

Cold country

Festivities Jamaica

Cold country


Christmas in Japan

There is no official celebration of Christmas in Japan as less than one percent of the population is Christian.

In a few homes though you may find artificial Christmas trees decorated with small toys, dolls, ornaments, gold paper fans, lanterns, and even wind chimes. Candles are also on the branches. One of the most popular ornaments is the origami swan. The Christmas trees are usually purchased with the decorations already in place.

Japanese Christmas Crossword

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Across Down 6. Birds made by origami. 1. Beautiful Origami Swan initials

7. Not real. 2. These have wicks.

9. Needed by some chimes if they are to sound.

3. Japan is made up of four main _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (the map may help you)

4. Part of the decorations.

5. Japan has a very small _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ population.

8. These are golden and made of paper.

**For Fast Finishers: 1. Write one sentence containing all of these words: Japan Christmas lanterns branches origami artificial

2. Now make a sentence that includes these words: gold decorate chimes people toys Japanese


Christmas in Japan

Hoteiosho, one of the gods from an ancient Japanese era, brings gifts at Christmas time. Since he has eyes in the back of his head, it's natural for him to observe the behaviour of Japanese children.

As in our country a Japanese tradition is the Christmas cake. However the cake is rarely a home project; it is purchased from a shop rather than prepared by the family.

The Daiku, or ‗Great Nine‘, refers to Beethoven's ‗Ninth Symphony‘. This is traditionally performed in many places in Japan during the Christmas and New Year Season.

In Tokyo, unusual Christmas decorations – often made of bamboo and pine- are created. One spectacular decoration is a 4.5 metre tall Christmas tree made from 3,795 champagne glasses. It's illuminated from within and the colours light up the night. On December 26th, the decorations are taken down and the Japanese prepare for the fast-approaching New Year's holiday.

1. Find words in the passage that mean the same as:

a) very old ………………………………………. b) look at ……………………………………. c) custom ……………………………………. d) seldom ………………………………………. e) bought ……………………………………. f) lit up ……………………………………. 2. Show your skills as an artist…

Hoteiosho The huge Japanese Christmas tree


Christmas In Mexico

Feliz Navidad y Prospero A-o Nuevo! (Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!)

Read the passage and answer the questions on the accompanying sheet.

The familiar Bible story about the birth of Christ is told every year during the Christmas season in churches and homes the world over. In Mexico each December, Joseph and Mary's long-ago search for shelter is re-enacted for nine consecutive nights in the festival of Las Posadas. ‗Posada‘ means inn, or lodging, in Spanish.

The idea of commemorating the Holy Family's journey to Bethlehem can be traced back to St. Ignatius Loyola, in the 16th century. He suggested a Christmas novena, or special prayers to be said on nine successive days. In 1580, St. John of the Cross made a religious pageant out of the occasion, and seven years later the nine-day remembrance was introduced to the natives in Mexico by Spanish missionaries.

Solemn and deeply religious in mood at first, the observances soon became filled with a spirit of fun and, eventually, left the church and began to be celebrated in people's homes where the entire community joined in.

The posada begins with a procession that sets off as soon as it gets dark. Usually a child dressed as an angel heads the procession, followed by two more children carrying figures of Mary and Joseph on small poles adorned with twigs of pine. Garlands of colourful flowers are everywhere. Groups of boys and girls follow the lead figures, then come the grown-ups, and last of all, the musicians. When the procession reaches the house chosen for that evening, it divides into two groups, one representing the holy pilgrims, the other the innkeepers.

But the response is an unfriendly refusal. "This is no inn. Go away!" After repeated requests for shelter, the pilgrims explain who they are, and that Mary will soon give birth to a baby. The innkeepers relent and welcome the exhausted travellers: "Enter, holy pilgrims. Come into our humble dwelling and into our hearts. The night is one of joy, for here beneath our roof we shelter the Mother of God."

Everyone enters the room and kneels in prayer, after which the party moves out to the patio for fireworks and fun. Baskets of holiday sweets, called colaciones, have been prepared along with other food and drink. In large cities, so many posadas are held that partygoers can manage to attend four or five in one evening.

For eight nights similar ceremonies are repeated. But on the ninth evening, Christmas Eve, a particularly impressive posada takes place, during which an image of the Christ Child is carried in by two people who have been selected as the godparents. With great reverence, the image is laid in a tiny crib.

Sometimes a Christmas Eve posada will have real people representing the Holy Family, with Mary riding a donkey, and the procession concluding at a manger scene set up in a field. The people in the procession carry faroles, transparent paper lanterns containing lighted candles, attached to long poles.

The pilgrims line up behind the angel and the children bearing the figures of the Holy Family, and they file through the house until they arrive at a closed door, behind which the innkeepers have stationed themselves. The pilgrims knock on the door and call out in song, asking for shelter. A chorus of voices on the other side asks: "Who knocks at my door so late in the night?" The pilgrims respond, "In the name of Heaven I beg you for lodging - my beloved wife can no longer travel, and she is weary."


Christmas In Mexico

Answers to all the clues can be found in the passage.

Mexican Christmas Crossword 1 2 3

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5 6 7 8

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Across

Down 1. Mary‘s child. 2. This is the language of Mexico. 4. Spanish word for inn. 3. Joseph‘s wife. 6. 1st word of Mexican Christmas greeting. 5. Travellers seeking spiritual happiness. 9. Place of lodging. 7. The 9th evening is Christmas _ _ _. 10. Destination of the Holy Family. 8. A saint of the Cross. 13. Fun and _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ follow prayer. 11. St. Ignatius _ _ _ _ _ _. 14. Very serious. 12. Las Posadas goes for _ _ _ _ nights. 15. Usually at the head of the procession.

When you have completed the crossword make an original sentence for each of these Mexican words:

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b) colaciones …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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c) faroles ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……….

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How many words of 5 or more letters can you make from the letters in

Mexican Christmas? …………………………………… …………………………..…..…… ……………………………………… …………………………………

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Christmas in The Netherlands

In the Netherlands, St. Nicholas is known as Sinterklaas. Dutch children believe he arrives from Spain on a steamer on his feast day, December 6th. The night before (December 5th), they fill their shoes with hay and sugar for his white horse and, in the morning, awake to find them filled with gifts such as nuts and sweets. Sometimes Sinterklaas appears in person in the children's homes, along with his assistant, Black Pete. Sinterklaas questions the children about their behaviour during the past year and often asks them to recite Bible verses.

Your Thoughts and Ideas 1. Discuss the differences between Sinterklaas and Santa Claus.

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2. Based on the above passage do two sketches of your choosing.

Presents are exchanged on St Nicholas Eve (5th December), and the Dutch like to include an element of surprise. Sometimes a small gift is wrapped in a huge box, or the parcel is hidden in an unexpected place.

After Sinterklaas has returned to Spain, people start preparing for Christmas by decorating their homes and shops. Poinsettias, which are called Kerststers (Christmas Stars), are popular items this time of year, and everyone loves to sing Christmas carols.

Christmas is celebrated on 2 days, rather than just one. On the eve of First Christmas Day, the Christmas tree is lit for the first time. People may attend church that evening, or on First Christmas Day morning. Families will gather together to eat dinner on First Christmas Day at a candle-lit table that has been decorated with green, white and red trimmings. Venison, hare, goose or turkey are served as the main dish, with Kerstbrood (Christmas loaf), Kerstkrans (Christmas Ring) and different kinds of puddings as desserts. Christmas carols are sung, the birth of Jesus narrated, or favourite Christmas tales read.

Second Christmas Day is spent in leisurely activities, which may include attending plays or symphonies.

School children receive 2 weeks holidays during this time.

Sinterklaas on his white horse


Christmas in The Netherlands

The Blowing of the Horns

The farming people of Twente in the Netherland’s east hold a special Advent ceremony in which horns are blown to announce the birth of Christ. Horns are home-made out of one-year-old saplings and are about a metre long. Blown over wells, they sound a deep eerie tone, similar to a foghorn.

The origins of horn blowing date back to approximately 2500 B.C. when it was believed the sound would chase away evil spirits. The horns have great carrying power. On cold, icy nights, people can hear their monotone more than five kilometres away. The tones receive answers from farm to farm in a joint announcement of the pending arrival of the Christmas season.

Complete each of these sentences using between 8 and 15 of your own words.

Farmers in Twente in the Netherlands…………………………………………………………………………….…………

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Dating back to around 2500 B.C.…………………………………………………………..……………………..…….…………

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Farmers join together to …………………………………………………………..………………………...………………..…….…………

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Write a description of Sinterklaas (The Netherlands’ Santa Claus) as seen in this illustration.

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Christmas In Nicaragua

Nicaragua retains many of the customs of old Spain, from where its earliest inhabitants originated. In the weeks leading up to Christmas people stroll the streets where there are many things to buy: candles, Nativity pictures, toys and foods.

Christmas begins officially on December 6th. This is the day called La Gritería (it refers to a time of great uproar and yelling in great enthusiasm). During La Gritería many people, particularly the young, are out there to sing with all their might until they lose their voices. They stop at each house, whose main entrance or porch is usually decorated, to sing songs for Jesus‘ mother, Mary. The Christmas songs -including carols, boleros, salsas and pop songs- begin early in the evening. The happy singers receive gifts that vary from sweets to pencils. Sugar cane (cañas de azúcar) and pinolillo (a traditional Nicaraguan drink) are among the more popular gifts. The celebrations of La Gritería include paradings of a giant doll called La Gigantona (The Super Female Giant) which is a queen, and symbol for the Virgin Mary. It goes dancing through the streets with drums being played.

Actual activities begin on December 16th with the performance of the lodging difficulties experienced by Mary and Joseph. The home where lodging is found provides wine and food. Every home contains a manger scene, such as the one in the picture.

On Christmas Eve, church bells beckon the people to Midnight Mass. December 24th (not the 25th), is commonly referred to as ‗Navidad‘ (Christmas Day).

Exercises

Using information from the passage make meaningful sentences for the words and phrases below. Take care to ensure your sentences are not too similar in structure to the ones in the passage.

La Gritería ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. boleros and salsas ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. pinolillo ………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. La Gigantona ……………………………………………………………………………………………………...…………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Navidad………………………...……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

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On another sheet of paper draw a picture of La Gigantona being paraded through the streets.


Christmas In Nicaragua

At Christmas time in Nicaragua people talk about ‗el aginaldo‘, the very high Christmas wages given to most laborers. They also enjoy discussions about old and beautiful traditions of great colour and love. The markets are full and lively with the Nicaraguans celebrating in their unique ‗Nica‘ way.

In Managua, the capital city, Christmas trees are found in most houses, though they are often artificial because pine trees are not abundant. They are usually easy to handle and not too tall.

Younger to middle-aged people are all at Christmas parties. Cold or bad weather is never experienced by Nicaraguans at Christmas and parties are in full swing until dawn and beyond. The food is plentiful and the dancing non-stop. There are people dancing in patios, in living rooms and in the street. Nicaraguan Christmases are full of fun and festivity, with much colour everywhere.

Foods served in Nicaragua at Christmas time include relleno (a dish of turkey and raisins), and traditional Nicaraguan foods such as nacatamal. Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are part of the celebration together with home-made sweets, food such as tortillas, rosquillas and picos, and many other delicious things.

4. Many Nicaraguans worship at this cathedral at Christmas time. How well can you describe this beautiful old building?

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1. Make a meaningful sentence that includes all of the following words:

el aginaldo, workers, Nicaraguan, Christmas, pleased ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2. What is meant by the phrase

‗old and beautiful traditions of great colour and love‘ ?

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Christmas In Norway

The Norwegian ‗Nisse‘

Nisser are elves (or gnomes) which appear in Norway around Christmas time. People believe they existed long before the birth of Christ. There are several types of nisser. The best known is the ‗Fjøsnisse‘ which is a nisse who takes care of the animals on farms. The ‗Fjøsnisse‘ is very short and often bearded and lives in a barn or a stable. He wears clothes of wool and often has a red knitted hat. The ‗Fjøsnisse‘ often plays tricks on people. Sometimes he will scare people by blowing out the lights in the barn or he will scare the farm dog at night (you can hear the dogs bark). He can become very friendly with the people that live on the farm, but you should never forget to give him a large portion of porridge on Christmas Eve - or else he will play tricks; for example move the animals around in the barn, or braid the horses' mane and tail. NB „nisse‟ is singular, „nisser‟ is plural.


Imagine you are the Fjøsnisse (pictured). Write about your adventures one Christmas Eve. …………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………

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Christmas In Norway

Being a cold country Norway often experiences snow at Christmas time. There is not only the whiteness of the snow, but also the white lights used for decorations (unlike the coloured ones used in many other countries). Skiing, bobsledding and tobogganing are popular activites among Norwegian children in the weeks leading up to and following Christmas.


It‟s early December, there is snow all around and you‟re about to experience your first Christmas in Norway. While tobogganing on a gently sloping mountainside you come across an old man who is lost.

Write a letter to a friend back home telling how you helped guide the old man back to his home in the village where you help him decorate his Christmas tree with white lights. Begin with “Dear……” (no address or date required here) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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Christmas In Poland

Finally the meal can begin. The feast consists of twelve courses, one for each Apostle, and often there is a compote of twelve fruits in honour of them. Poppy seed cake, beet soup, prune dumplings and noodles with poppy seed are universally popular.

The table is always set with one extra seat in case a stranger or the Holy Spirit should appear to share the meal. After supper, family and guests stay at the table until, at a signal from the host, they all rise in unison and leave. This is the result of an old superstition that the first to rise will die before the next Christmas Eve. The remainder of the evening is given to stories and songs around the Christmas tree. The tree is decorated with nuts, apples and ornaments made from eggshells, coloured paper, straw, and hand blown glass baubles. Carollers may walk from house to house, receiving treats along the way.

2. Practise your Polish! After reading the passage you should be able to make a single sentence containing the words Gwiazdka and oplatek. Have a try! (use your words as much as possible). …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...……………

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3. What can you learn about Polish people from the final paragraph? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...……………

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Poland is a land of intriguing traditions, superstitions, and legends. Its people have always combined religion and family closeness at Christmas time.

Christmas in Poland is referred to as Gwiazdka, which means ‗little star‘ (in remembrance of the Star of Bethlehem). On Christmas Eve, everyone watches the sky anxiously, hoping to be the first to cry out, "The star!"

The moment the star appears, everyone exchanges greetings and good wishes, and a special rice wafer (stamped with scenes of the nativity and blessed by the parish priest) called oplatek, is broken into pieces and shared by all.

Preparing for Christmas in Poland


1. Describe the two people in the picture on the left.

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Sketch a Polish Christmas tree as described in the last paragraph.


Christmas In Poland

In the days leading up to Christmas, Nativity (Szopka) competitions are held in Krakow's Market Square. The elaborate and colourful Szopka are constructed to resemble the local architecture and they take hundreds of hours and great patience to complete. It's considered a great honour to be selected for the first prize. After the competition the crèches may be seen on display in the cathedrals and churches throughout the area.

A tradition in Poland that is not taken seriously is one where elderly people predict the next year‘s weather on what they see outside on January 6th.

In Poland December can be icy and it almost always snows on Christmas Day. Some Polish people believe that if there is no snow at Christmas there almost certainly will be at Easter. Another belief is that the star that shines on Christmas Eve will make the hens lay more eggs. Some Polish girls believe that if they blindfold each other and touch fence pickets a straight smooth picket signifies a hard-working husband while a crooked and rough one is an indication of a clumsy and awkward husband.

There are three types of Polish carols - religious, legendary and imaginative. The religious carols are among the most profound and beautiful of all Polish hymns. The legendary ones are based on the book of the Apocrypha containing many legends. The third kind arose from people of humble birth, who in relating the story of the nativity, used familiar surroundings taken from their own homes.

2. Explain why it's considered a great honour to receive first prize in Krackow’s Szopka competition.

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3. Give meanings for these words as they apply in the passage.

elaborate………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

tradition…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

signifies…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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humble……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Polish Christmas angel Polish man of the Church

1. Describe either one of these two characters. ………………………………………………………………………………

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Christmas In Poland

The Star Man

1. The Festival of the Star ………………………………………………………………………………………...……………………………………………

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2. The Wigilia ………………………………………………………………….………………………………………...……………………………………………

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3. As a reminder of …………………………………………………………………………………………………...……………………………………………

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4. The Star Man …………………………………………………………………………………………………...………………………………...………………

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In Poland, Christmas is often described as the Festival of the Star, commemorating one of the most important symbols of Christmas, the Star of Bethlehem.

Celebrations begin on Christmas Eve, called the Wigilia, which is a time of fasting and of joyful anticipation in remembrance of the vigil that the shepherds kept on that first Christmas long ago.

Children eagerly look for the first star to appear in the evening sky. At its appearance a lighted candle is placed in the window and the family gathers to share the feast. An extra chair is set at the table for the Christ Child and a bed of straw is placed under the white table cloth as a reminder of the straw-filled manger in Bethlehem.

Children await the visit of the Star Man, also known as Swiety Nikotaj, with much excitement. He is a more religious version of Santa Claus, usually being the village priest or a family friend in disguise. He is accompanied by Star Boys, villagers carrying an illuminated star and singing carols as they go from house to house.

When the Star Man arrives he gathers the children around him and questions them on their religious knowledge and tests them on their prayers. Afterwards small gifts are distributed by the Star Man which have been sent from the Mother Star, the good Star of Heaven. The Mother Star knows the desires of the children because in the weeks leading up to Christmas they had left letters for her on their windowsills. Sometimes the Mother Star herself accompanies the Star Man, dressed in a white dress and a flowing veil which covers her head and face.

After the visit of the Star Man, the children go to bed while the adults go out into the star-filled night to attend Midnight Mass at the local church. This mass is called the Mass of the Shepherds. On this most holy of nights, according to legend, it is said that those whose lives have been pure and blameless may see in the winter sky a vision of Jacob‘s ladder reaching to Heaven.

Using your own words complete the sentences below in the most interesting way you can. (numbers match paragraphs).


Sketch a scene from paragraphs 5 or 6.


Christmas In Poland

Polish Christmas Carols

‗God is Born‘ (Bog sie Rodzi) is the National Christmas hymn of Poland.

Formerly sung by Polish Kings the words to this carol were written by Franciszek Karpinski in the 18th century.

"Merrily to Bethlehem" (Przybiezeli do Betlejem) is thought to be one of the oldest carols still sung today. This joyous light hearted song was written in the 16th century by Jan of Lublin.


1. What do you think is meant by every Pole's heart swells at their sound ?

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2. In the second paragraph what is meant by the phrase in aid of?

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3. In your own words say why Captain Sliwinski and Major Teslar wrote down the words to a lot of carols. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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4. Why do you think Polish carols might have spread from the Church into the village?

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Polish Christmas Carols are amongst the richest in Europe and every Pole's heart swells at their sound.

During WWII, Captain Jan Sliwinski arranged a number of the old Polish carols to be published in aid of the Polish Red Cross. Until these publications little was known about Polish carols outside of Poland.

Captain Sliwinski and his friend Major Teslar, who met during the Great War of 1914-18, and were, in their own words, "old comrade-carollers", wrote down the words to as many carols as they could remember, before they died out completely. Some were from the peasant villages, while others were grand carols of the ruling class.

The popularity of Polish folk carols has lived on, and there are many recordings available today, perhaps the loveliest by the Slask and Mazowsze choirs.

Over the years Polish carols gradually spread from the Church into the village. Mothers lulled their children to sleep with them while soldiers in many foreign lands found comfort in singing them.


Make up your own Christmas carol….just words, just music, or both. If you wish you may model your carol on a tune you already know.

http://www.christmasarchives.com/audio/God%20is%20Born.mid

http://www.christmasarchives.com/audio/mrltbtlm.mid


Christmas In Romania

Craciun Fericit = Merry Christmas La Multi Ani = Happy New Year As Christianity is by far the most common religion in Romania, Christmas celebrations and festivities are seen throughout the country, from Bucharest to Oradea, and from Timisoara to tiny communities that cannot be found on a map.

Throughout the Christmas season Romanian children travel from house to house singing carols, reciting poetry and retelling legends. The leader carries a large wooden star called a steaua (pictured), which is covered with shiny paper and decorated with bells and coloured ribbon. A picture of the Holy Family is pasted in the star's centre, and the entire creation is attached to a broomstick or stout pole.

One song the children sing goes like this: "Can you see the pretty star, Shiny and so bright? It appears here on earth As God thinks it‟s right And it may be seen on high, Way above, in the sky.”

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Your Thoughts and Ideas Write an acrostic poem. Choose your words by drawing upon the passage above and the one on the following page.

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Christmas In Romania


A. Write sentences containing these sets of words (order is not important): 1. Romania, Turta, Nosterea Domnului Isus …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… 2. dough, baby Jesus, tightly-wrapped …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… 3. father, spare, fruit, Mother, threatens …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… B. Use your best vocabulary to describe what you see in the Romanian Christmas Day scene above. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………

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In Romania they speak of the delicious Turta, the special cake made for Nosterea Domnului Isus (Christmas Eve). Its thin coats of rolled dough represent the tightly-wrapped clothes of the Christ Child. The dough is made the night before and it is the custom for father and mother to take it out into the garden. Father then goes from tree to tree threatening to cut each one down—and mother tries to prevent him from touching the tree each time, saying, "Spare this tree, for next year it will be as heavy with fruit as my fingers are with dough."


Christmas In Russia

The most important ingredient of Christmas dinner is a special porridge called kutya. It is made of wheatberries or other grains which symbolize hope and immortality, and honey and poppy seeds which ensure happiness, success, and untroubled rest.

A ceremony involving the blessing of the home is frequently observed. A priest visits the home accompanied by boys carrying vessels of holy water, and a little water is sprinkled in each room. The kutya is eaten from a common dish to symbolize unity. Some families used to throw a spoonful of kutya up to the ceiling. According to tradition, if the kutya stuck, there would be a plentiful honey harvest.

Babushka is a traditional Christmas figure who distributes presents to children. Her name means ‗grandmother‘ and the legend is told that she declined to go with the wise men to see Jesus because of the cold weather. However, she regretted not going and set off to try and catch up, filling her basket with presents. She never found Jesus, and that is why she visits each house, leaving toys for good children. Father Christmas is known as Dedushka Moroz or Grandfather Christmas.

Your Thoughts and Ideas A. Unjumble each Russian Christmas word and then write its meaning.

Jumbled Unjumbled Meaning

1. kaeyl ……………………………………… ………………………….…. ………………………………………………………….

2. suaBakbh ……………………………………… ………………………………………. ……………………………………………….

3. yukat ……………………………...………… …………. …………………………………………………..…………..…………….

B. Give synonyms (or phrases) for the following words as they appear in the passage:

1. customary …………………………………………………….…… 2. includes …………………………………………………….……

3. ensure …………………………………………………….…… 4. distributes …………………………………………………….……

C. Show your artistic talents by copying either the Russian Christmas bell or the Russian church into

the space below:

Most Russian Christians belong to the Eastern Orthodox Church and it is customary to fast until after the first church service on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Eve hay is spread on the floors and tables to encourage horse feed to grow in the coming year and people make clucking noises in the hope that their hens will lay eggs. On Christmas Day people gather in churches which have been decorated with the usual Christmas trees (yelka), flowers and coloured lights. Christmas dinner includes a variety of different meats - goose and suckling pig are favourites.


Christmas In Russia

Saint Nicholas, the ‗Russian Santa Claus‘

1. patron ……………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………….

2. predicament ……………..……………………..………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………….

3. burden ……………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………….

4. dowry ……………………………………………..……………………………………………...…………………………………..……………………………….

B. Write a sentence of 12-20 words to describe the kind of boy young Nicholas was. (as much as possible try to use your own words) ……………………………………..……………………………………………….………………………………………………………..………………………………. ……………………………………..………………………………………………………….………...…………………………………..……………………………….

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In our country children love their Christmas visits from Santa Claus but in Russia it‘s not Santa but St. Nicholas who brings joy to the young at this special time of year.

According to Russians St. Nicholas was a kind miracle-worker and patron of children who was born in Patara, Turkey, seventeen centuries ago.

As a child Nicholas was slightly different from others. The town-dwellers knew that the boy would always help anybody out of a predicament: he would help an old person to carry their burden, would help a lone woman fix a household problem and would give a helping hand to a cart-driver if his cart got stuck in the mud. Nicholas kept performing good deeds. This made other people kinder too, and they in turn tried to help anybody who wanted assistance.

Lots of tales are told about Nicholas as an adult. A citizen of Patara had lost all his money and had to support three daughters who could not find husbands because of their poverty. When this came to the ears of Nicholas, he took three purses of gold and, under cover of darkness, threw them into the chimney of their house. The purses fell into the girls‘ shoes, which were getting dry near the fireplace. That was a dowry for the girls who soon became married.

To this day millions of children leave their shoes by the fireplace at Christmas time in the hope that they will find presents from St. Nicholas there. Many Russians now refer to St. Nicholas as Father Frost…..quite like our Father Christmas!

Some Questions

A. Use your dictionary to find meanings for the words below.

C. In the two pictures of St. Nicholas on this page you can see that there are resemblances to Santa Claus. Discuss any similarities and differences you can find. ……………………………………..……………………………………………….………………………..…………

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Christmas In Russia

‗How the Russian Snow Maiden Helped Santa Claus‘ a book review

Illustrator Natasha Voronina is an artist who lives in Sergiev Posad, a town outside of Moscow where the first Russian nesting doll was made over a hundred years ago. Natasha studied at the Technical College of Toys and is known for the unique and heart-warming style of her matryoshka dolls. This is her first book. Natasha has three children, all of whom are studying to be artists. "When I saw one of Natasha's dolls in a museum, I knew she was the artist for The Snow Maiden," said Buyske. "If only finding her was as easy. I went through doll sellers and friends and friends of friends to contact her. It was part of the challenge and the fun of creating this book."

Read the book review. Then answer these questions.

1. What is meant by:

consoles …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…………………………………………….

woes ……………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………….…………………………………………….

despairs …………………………………………………………………………………………...……………………….…………………………………………….

unique ……………………………………………………………………………...……………………………………….…………………………………………….

heart-warming ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….

2. ‘How the Russian Snow Maiden Helped Santa Claus’ is a book written for children up to 12 years of age. From what you read above what would you say might appeal to children in this story? ………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………...…………………………………………….

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Published by Vernissage Press in May 2005, ‗How the Russian Snow Maiden Helped Santa Claus‘ presents some fascinating folk characters and traditions from Russia….a country far-away from ours. The delightful story provides children with a good lesson in the importance of being yourself.

Santa Claus is overworked one year and writes to his friend Father Frost, the Russian Santa, to ask if the Snow Maiden, Frost‘s helper, could come to the North Pole and help out. Since Russian children do not open their presents until New Year‘s Day Father Frost agrees and sends the Snow Maiden to the North Pole. He gives her a nesting doll (a matryoshka) to remind her of home. Playing with the doll consoles the Snow Maiden as she worries that she is not being enough help to Santa. When the littlest piece of the doll is lost, her woes are worsened and she despairs of being ―only a little girl.‖ When the piece is found, Santa discovers the perfect gift he needed for this year's new Christmas toy. And the Snow Maiden learns a lesson in being herself.

Author Gail Buyske has been collecting Russian folk art since her first trip to Russia as a Russian language student. She is the editor of the award-winning The Art of the Russian Matryoshka, also published by Vernissage Press. This is her first book for children. Gail, her husband, and her matryoshka dolls live in New York, USA.


Christmas In Russia

How’s your Russian Christmas Art?

Russia is famous for its matryoshka or ‗nesting‘ dolls. These are dolls of ever-decreasing sizes that fit snugly into one another.

The ones on the left and right depict St Nicholas.

Other saintly figures adorn the dolls below right.

The set of 5 Santa Claus dolls (actually it‘s Father Frost!), below right, fit neatly inside each other.

In the spaces below design some Russian Christmas dolls of your own.

Individual doll

Set of small Christmas matryoshka.

Set of large Christmas matryoshka.


Christmas In Wales

Give two reasons why you would like or would not like to be the Mari Llwyd. …………………………………………………………………………

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The number of Welsh Christmas carols is ever-increasing. What ensures this? …………………………………………………………………………

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Do you think you would enjoy eating taffy? Why/Why not? …………………………………………………………………………

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After reading the passage what is one thing you can say about the Welsh? …………………………………………………………………………

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The Welsh are great lovers of music and so every year at Christmas, carol singing is the most enjoyed activity. Carols are sung in churches and in people's homes around the Christmas tree and at the doors and windows.

Caroling is called eisteddfodde and is often accompanied by a harp. The carolers make their rounds at dawn on Christmas morning, and families wake from sleep and ask them in for refreshments.

Christmas is spent with lots of people gathering in the public square for the announcement of who, during the year, has won the prize for submitting the best music for a new carol, and the formal announcement of it as the carol of the year. This carol is then added to those already known and sung in Wales.

Taffy making is one of the most important parts of the Welsh Christmas. This involves the making of a special kind of chewy toffee from brown sugar and butter. It is boiled and then pulled so that it becomes smooth and glossy.

The Christmas season is also the time for the Mari Llywd to appear. This odd creature is represented by a man wearing a sheet and wearing a fake horse's head. The creature dances around in public and tries to bite people (with the horse's jaws). If he manages to bite you, you must give him money!

Your Thoughts and Ideas:

Christmas in the city. Welsh corgis.


Christmas In Wales

Excerpt from

A Child's Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

How’s your Comprehension? Answer questions with complete sentences; use your own words where possible. 1. Why were the two boys waiting for cats? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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2. What did the boys think of the cats? (How did they ‗view‘ them?/ What was their opinion of them?) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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3. Did Mrs Prothero cry? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. What word could have been used instead of ‗cry‘? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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5. What is a dinner-gong? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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6. What are two reasons the boys might have kept hold of their snowballs as they ran to the house? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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7. How do you explain Mr Prothero saying, ―A fine Christmas!‖ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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I can‘t remember whether it snowed for six days and six nights when I was twelve or whether it snowed for twelve days and twelve nights when I was six. In those days one Christmas was so much like another.

It was on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, and I was in Mrs. Prothero's garden, waiting for cats, with her son Jim. It was snowing. It was always snowing at Christmas. December, in my memory, is white as Lapland, though there were no reindeer. But there were cats. Patient, cold and callous, our hands wrapped in socks, we waited to snowball the cats. Sleek and long as jaguars and horrible-whiskered, spitting and snarling, they would slink and sidle over the white back-garden walls, and the lynx-eyed hunters, Jim and I, fur-capped, were ready to hurl our deadly snowballs at the green of their eyes. The wise cats never appeared.

At first we didn‘t hear Mrs. Prothero's cry from the bottom of the garden. But soon the voice grew louder. "Fire!" cried Mrs. Prothero, and she beat the dinner-gong. We ran down the garden, with the snowballs in our arms, toward the house; and smoke, indeed, was pouring out of the dining-room. We bounded into the house, laden with snowballs, and stopped at the open door of the smoke-filled room. Something was burning all right; perhaps it was Mr. Prothero, who always slept there after midday dinner with a newspaper over his face. But he was standing in the middle of the room, saying, "A fine Christmas!" and smacking at the smoke with a slipper.


For your Christmas cards or classroom walls


P4 2. The Three Wise Men came from Iran which was then called Persia.

3. 18 days.

P9 Christmas in Ireland

1

D 2

H

U

I

T

O

3

H

O

L

L

Y

4

M 5

A

S

K 6

S

I

7

M

N

H

8

P

U

D

D

I

N

G

S

O

I

A

N

E

N

L

Y

C

L

9

C

A

K 10

E

L

E

I

11

C

O

I

N

S

12

P

R

W

13

N

O

I

S

E

C

14

B

E

D

S

L

15

O

R

A

N

G

E

16

T

E

A

S

G

17

W

R

E

N

Most questions in the book are open-ended, with no right or wrong answers. Other questions have answers that will be obvious to teachers. The answers here, however, will prove useful.


P16 Christmas in Japan

P17. 1. a) ancient b) observe c) tradition d) rarely e) purchased f) illuminated

P19 Christmas in Mexico

J E S U S M

P O S A D A

A R

N Y

P F E L I Z J

I N N V S O

L B E T H L E H E M

G O N

R N Y

I F I R E W O R K S

M N L

S O L E M N A N G E L

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B C

I L O C A

S W A N S H N

L N R D

A R T I F I C I A L

N E A S E

D R N T S

S N S I

S A

W I N D


Seeking to showcase…

** Australia‟s Best Young Writers and their Schools **

ages 5-14

From time to time Intelligent Australia Productions (IAP) intends publishing books featuring collections of thoughts, prose and poetry from Australian students. These books, marketed to school libraries and the general community, will be a showpiece of creative young talent in Australia‘s schools. Genres include Narrative, Report, Recount, Description, Exposition, Journal, Editorial, Explanation, Procedure, Discussion and Review.

IAP would be delighted to receive submissions -between 100 and 200 words- from your students.

Those whose writing is published will be notified by mail around time of publication and will receive a copy of the book containing their submission.

Seeking thoughts, prose or poetry on themes and topics such as:

Favourite Animal, My Pet, Aliens, Space/Universe, Maths Mysteries, Computers or Computer Games, Nature, Horses, Whales, Dolphins, Friends, Holidays, Adventure, Discovery, Ancient Civilisations, Music, Magic, Dreams, Time Travel, Sport, Mythical Creatures, Robots, Pirates, Dinosaurs, Fantasy Stories (and Creatures), etc. (other themes and topics welcomed)

We are also seeking children‘s thoughts on important topics and issues (Bullying, Environment, Peace, etc) as well as what children would like to be when they grow up (and why).

Individual submissions or class/school batches should be mailed to:

The Editor Intelligent Australia Productions PO Box 670 Hillarys, WA 6923 Australia

Note: The publisher reserves the right to edit submitted work and provides no guarantee that said work will be published. Submissions will remain the property of IAP and will not be returned to the originator or the school. IAP is not able to provide feedback on students‘ work and cannot advise publication dates in advance.

Submissions can only be accepted on copies of the enclosed form (see next page).

All published work will appear with

Student’s name and age + School’s name


Young Writers Publishing Opportunity

Name…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……Age……………………

School…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Year Level…………

School‘s Address (include postcode) …………………………………………………………………………………….…………………. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……

Teacher Co-ordinator……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Date submitted…………………………………………………………………………………………………

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