Vocabulary:

 
Superstition (noun): A belief or practice based on irrational or supernatural causality rather than scientific reasoning.

Folklore (noun): Traditional customs, stories, and beliefs passed down through generations within a particular culture.

Taboo (noun): A social or cultural restriction or prohibition against certain actions, behaviors, or objects.

Omen (noun): An event or phenomenon believed to be a sign or indication of something to come, often considered as good or bad luck.

Ritual (noun): A set of actions or ceremonies performed in a prescribed manner, often associated with religious or cultural practices.

Amulet (noun): An object, typically worn or carried, believed to have the power to protect against evil or bring good luck.

 
Discussion Questions:

 
Do you believe in superstitions? What are some common superstitions in your culture or country?

Why do you think people believe in superstitions? What role do superstitions play in society?

Can you think of any superstitions or taboos related to specific actions, numbers, or objects in different cultures?

How do superstitions influence people's behavior or decision-making? Can they affect someone's daily life?

What are some rituals or practices associated with superstitions in your culture or community?

How do you think superstitions contribute to cultural identity and folklore?

Article: 

Strange Superstitions from Around the World

 
Superstitions vary greatly from one culture to another, reflecting the unique beliefs and customs of different societies. Here are some intriguing examples of strange superstitions from around the world:

Breaking a mirror is believed to bring seven years of bad luck in many cultures. This superstition originates from the ancient Romans, who believed that mirrors held fragments of one's soul. Breaking a mirror would cause damage to the soul and result in prolonged misfortune.

In some Asian cultures, the number four is considered unlucky because it sounds similar to the word for "death" in their language. Many buildings and elevators omit the fourth floor, jumping directly from the third to the fifth to avoid the association with bad luck.

In Turkey, it is believed that chewing gum at night is akin to chewing on the flesh of the dead. This superstition has its roots in ancient burial customs and the belief that chewing gum at night disturbs the spirits of the deceased.

In India, it is considered unlucky to sleep with your head pointing north. This belief stems from Hindu mythology, where the god of death, Yama, resides in the north. Sleeping with your head facing north is believed to invite death.

In Mexico and some Latin American countries, the superstition of the "evil eye" is prevalent. It is believed that certain individuals possess the power to cause harm or misfortune through their gaze. To protect against the evil eye, people often wear amulets or engage in rituals to ward off the negative energy.

In parts of Africa, it is believed that twins possess supernatural powers and can bring either great fortune or disaster. These beliefs have resulted in unique cultural practices and rituals centered around twins, such as special ceremonies and taboos.

In Scotland, sighting a white butterfly at night is considered a bad omen associated with death. This superstition is rooted in folklore and the belief that spirits and otherworldly creatures manifest themselves in different forms.

In Brazil, the superstition warns against stepping on a crack in the sidewalk, as it is believed to bring bad luck to one's mother. The origin of this belief is unclear, but it has become a popular belief passed down through generations.

In Japan, it is believed that trimming nails at night will shorten one's life span. This superstition likely originated from the practical concern of accidentally injuring oneself in dim lighting, but over time it has become associated with negative consequences.

In Nigeria, some people believe that wearing clothes inside out during exams or tests brings good luck. This superstition may be related to the idea of reversing one's fortune or seeking unconventional means to achieve success.

In Italy, spotting a bird's droppings on you or your property is considered a sign of good luck. This superstition likely originates from the belief that birds are messengers from the heavens, and their droppings symbolize blessings and good fortune.

Further Discussion Questions:

Which of the above superstitions do you think is the most strange?

Which do you believe could be true?

Can you share any other strange superstitions which you've heard about?

Why do you think people are supersitious?

Who is the most superstitious person you know?