Tall tales are stories, customs, songs and sayings from our past that are handed down by families or a group of people. They tell us about our ancestors. American folklore is told in stories and songs, some true and some told in a way to make the story better. Most important, these stories all tell us about the hopes and dreams of life in early America. A modern day story might be the fishing story of “the one that got away” on a recent fishing trip you or a friend may have been on. It’s that big fish that you reeled in and tossed back in the water to save for another fishing adventure.
Rationale for Adventure
Our past is exciting and important for Scouts to understand. Tiger Tales offers a glimpse of songs, stories, and customs that have been passed down through families and groups of people about the history of America. Some stories are about real people such as Davy Crockett. Their stories tend to be exaggerated to make them seem bigger than life. Other times, stories are about fictional characters capable of amazing things that seem impossible. Either way, tall tales and folk songs offer the spirit of American life from our ancestors telling us about their happiness, fears, dreams, and the hopes they shared.
Requirements
Complete at least four of the following requirements.
- Create a tall tale with your den.
- Create your own tall tale. Share your tall tale with your den.
- Read a tall tale with your parent, guardian, or other caring adult.
- Create a piece of art from a scene in the tall tale you have read, using your choice of materials. Share it with your den.
- Play a game from the past.
- Sing two folk songs.
- Visit a historical museum or landmark with your parent, guardian, or other caring adult.
Takeaways for Cub Scouts
- Developing loyalty to our country
- Developing appreciation for their nation’s culture and heritage
- Showing respect for what our ancestors have provided for us
Historical Requirements
2015 Handbook Requirements
Adventure Location:
Tiger Handbook, page 250
Tiger Den Leader Guide, page 169
- Create a tall tale with your den.
- Create your own tall tale. Share your tall tale with your den.
- Read a tall tale with your adult partner.
- Create a piece of art from a scene in the tall tale you have read, using your choice of materials. Share it with your den.
- Play a game from the past.
- Sing two folk songs.
- Visit a historical museum or landmark with your adult partner.
