What’s Up World? Ireland

Mmmm! On a cool Saturday morning, you wake up to the smell of breakfast cooking. You head to the kitchen of your home in a small Irish town. Soon you’re devouring eggs, baked beans, brown bread, and pudding—sausage made with pork and oats. Then you start your busy day.

First up is some housework. One of your responsibilities is to take the rubbish out so that the bin lorry, or garbage truck, can pick it up.

Next you tackle homework and music practice. Most Irish kids take music lessons at school, and you’re no exception. You’ve been learning to play the bodhran (BOW-rawn), an Irish drum.

Later, you and your family ride bikes to a funfair, or carnival, for a special treat. You eat crisps, or potato chips, get your face painted, and go on a few rides. You get home in time for a late tea, or dinner—and some much-needed rest!

Keep reading to learn more about Ireland. How does it compare with your community?

Saint Patrick’s Day began in Ireland more than a thousand years ago. It’s one of the country’s biggest holidays. Every March 17, kids have off from school. Parades have floats, musicians, and traditional Irish dancers.

Hurling is a sport played with a wooden stick (called a hurley) and a ball. It began in Ireland long ago as a way to train warriors. When girls play this sport, it’s called camogie.

Ireland has almost as many sheep as people! These furry animals are raised by farmers for meat and wool. Some roam the countryside
to graze on grass.