Folklife Instructional Materials

Learning Kits

For grades 3-12

Rental Fees: $25 for two week, plus round trip shipping costs (if applicable)

The Oregon Folklife Series consists of self-contained instructional units focused on specific topics of traditional arts and cultures in Oregon. Each unit introduces students to the history, geography, customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions of a community while encouraging them to explore their own cultural heritage and traditions. These kits may be picked up at the Oregon Historical Society or can be shipped directly to the school.

Each unit includes:

• A four-panel table-top exhibit with handmade items by Oregon folk artists
• 
  
• A student magazine for each class member that serves as the text for the unit to access a shortened, on-line version of these, go to Arts and Media Basics
  
• 
  
• Maps, books, overheads, articles, videos, cassettes, and other resources
• 
  
• A teacher’s guide

Chinese Traditions of Oregon
This cultural exploration of one of Oregon’s oldest immigrant communities looks at history, language, and geography as well as customs, beliefs, foods, healing, and artistic traditions.

Lao Traditions of Oregon
This in-depth cultural study of a recent refugee community explores its geography, naming traditions, language, arts, rituals, and holiday celebrations.

Mexican American Folklife in Oregon
This unit looks at the history, foods, crafts, celebrations, religious life, music, dance, and community life of Oregon's largest ethnic population.

Maritime Folklife of Lincoln County
This takes a look at the beliefs, occupational skills, tools, and community life of this coastal county, including Native American, commercial, and recreational fishing traditions.

Traditional Arts of the Oregon Country
This is an overview of traditional arts in Oregon, including the role of traditional arts in communities around the state and featuring interviews with six young people about the role of traditions in their lives.

American Indian Traditional Arts in Oregon
This portable kit (not in the same format as those listed above) presents the Native perspective and includes samples of authentic traditional arts, crafted by Oregon tribal artists, as well as teacher resources, student activities, literature and historical photos.

To schedule a folk artist's visit, a Folklife program, and/or to order instructional materials, contact Carol Spellman, Folklife Coordinator, at (503) 306-5292 or email carol.spellman@ohs.org.

 

Please note: The Oregon Historical Society Folklife Program does not conduct background checks on artists listed in the Roster. Schools should follow district hiring procedures regarding criminal background checks for all personnel working with youth. Contact your district office.

Folklife in the Classroom

 

Multnomah County Portraits