Traditional LiteratureFolktales and Fables

What is a folktale/ fable?

• Folktales and fables are examples of traditional literature.

• Traditional literature has been passed down orally from one group to another group.

Folktales/ Fables

• Folktales and fables are very much like fairy tales. They contain magic, usually have a good and “evil” character, groups of 3, problem and solution, and teach a lesson by the end of the story.

• Folktales and fables also have different characteristics that define them.

Animals

• Folktales and fables are often stories of animals that act like humans.

• These animals usually talk and face everyday problems that regular people might face.

Message

• Most folktales and fables convey a message or explain something about nature in a creative way.

• Folktales and fables teach the reader a lesson, which is often stated at the end.

Activity• Listen to the story of Ananzi the Spider.

• Complete the Folk Tale sheet to explain why this is an example of a folktale.

• Discuss with your group.

Folktale?

1. Is this a folktale/fable?

2. What characteristics of a fable does this story have?

3. What characteristics are missing?

4. What is the message/lesson?