Hello Kidz Klub!
Happy Thursday! I hope you are ready for more fun and exciting virtual learning.
The month of May will take us all over the world on Where in The World !! We will journey to countries near and far, learning about their history, culture & language, cuisine, and other fun facts. We will be introduced to important citizens, visit famous landmarks, and learn regional recipes.
This week, we’re overseas exploring the United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Whales, and Northern Ireland to continue our exploration. On our way back home at the end of the week, we will make a pit stop to Iceland.
Are you ready for our last stop in the United Kingdom? Let’s head off to Northern Ireland!
Be Safe. Be healthy. Enjoy!
Take good care.
Miss Charisse
Let's Learn About Northern Ireland!
History:
Did you know … Northern Ireland has only existed for about 100 years, but its short history is filled with conflict. About 800 years ago the kings of England had gained control of Ireland which was then undivided Since England was Protestant while Ireland was Catholic, both sides strongly disliked each other. By about 100 years ago, those who wanted a free Ireland were known as republicans because they wanted Ireland to become a republic, a government where people come together to make laws. Those who disliked the idea of a free Ireland (most of whom lived in Northern Ireland) were referred to as unionists because they wanted the union with the United Kingdom to continue. By 1921, the Irish republicans began fighting for independence while the unionists fought to remain.
Culture & Language:
Did you know … Cultural life in Northern Ireland tends to follow the contours of political and sectarian differences. Everyday life is permeated by political and religious divisions. Although there is a shared participation in global culture, such as Hollywood movies, football (soccer), and popular music, both the nationalist and unionist communities maintain their own cultural practices. English is the most spoken language throughout the country. Their native language of Gaelic although present is disappearing. Northern Ireland's currency is the pound sterling (£).
LEARN MORE: HERE, HERE, & HERE.
Belfast, Northern Ireland:
Did you know … Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. It is the second largest city in Ireland, after Dublin. About 270,000 people live in the city. It became the capital of Northern Ireland in 1921. Belfast was throughout its modern history a major commercial and industrial center, but the late 20th century saw a decline in its traditional industries, particularly shipbuilding. Today, the city is the shopping, retail, educational, commercial, entertainment, and service center for Northern Ireland and the seat of many of its largest businesses and hospitals.
Famous Landmarks:
Did you know … More than 5,000 years of history are revealed through colossal passage tombs, the beehive huts of early monasteries, and more iconic landmarks. From legendary natural attractions, such as the mystical Giant's Causeway to newer arrivals, such as Belfast Titanic, there are many Irish places of curiosity, pilgrimage, and inspiration to explore.
Famous Citizens:
Did you know … Northern Ireland wouldn't be the same without its colorful combination of characters. Discover the famous faces to come from this diverse land. They may come from all arts and parts of the country, but they have two things in common – great talent and a great pride in their homeland.
Fun Facts
Did you know … Northern Ireland is the smallest country in the United Kingdom. Although English is the most popular language in Northern Ireland, Chinese is the most widely spoken minority language! The world-famous ship the Titanic was built and launched from Belfast Harbor. As in the rest of Ireland, there are no snakes or toads in the country!
Here are silly leprechaun jokes to make you giggle:
Did you know that a leprechaun is a type of fairy in Irish folklore and is usually depicted as a little bearded man, wearing a coat and hat, who partakes in mischief?
Why do leprechauns dislike leftovers?
They prefer left-clovers!
What kind of music do leprechauns love?
Sham-rock.
How can you spot a jealous shamrock?
It will be green with envy!
Why did the leprechaun turn down a bowl of soup?
Because he already had a pot of gold!
Why did the leprechaun walk out of the house?
He wanted to sit on the Paddy O’!
Why do leprechauns hate running?
They’d rather jig than jog!
Here are some videos of Northern Ireland...
The Animated History Of Ireland
Northern Ireland: a Musical Geography
The Giant’s Causeway (a natural wonder of Ireland)
Belfast and the Best of Northern Ireland
Irish Cottage Pie aka Shepard’s Pie!
The Irish cuisine takes its influence from the crops grown and animals farmed in its temperate climate. The introduction of the potato in the second half of the 16th century heavily influenced Ireland's cuisine thereafter and, as a result, is often closely associated with Ireland. Representative Irish dishes include Irish stew, bacon and cabbage, boxty, coddle, and colcannon.
Here’s a video of how to make an Irish Cottage Pie aka Shepard’s Pie… Delish!