This curriculum unit for middle school students explores the art of folklore and story telling. In the unit, students will explore the nature of various types of stories and tales and will identify the characteristics and motifs of subgenres such as tall tales, fairy tales, and fables. The following lessons are part of the unit: Folktales: A Variety of Unwise Characters; Folktales: Elements of Folktales; Folktales: Exploring American Tall Tales; and Folktales: Writing Folktales. Each lesson in the unit offers an overview; suggests length and grade level; lists subjects and subtopics; cites dimensions of leaning and intelligences being addressed; notes equipment and materials needed; lists teacher resources; and addresses National Standards for Arts Education and other standards. Each lesson also identifies instructional objectives and strategies; provides a detailed, step-by-step instructional plan; suggests assessment and extension activities; and lists teacher references. (NKA)