Land and climate ∙Norway is considered one of the three fingers of Scandinavia. ∙This is what they call the arctic circle ∙Natural resources are plentiful. ∙Cold climate is caused by Atlantic drifts.

∙Times as early as , Vikings took over many areas in Scandinavia, Europe, and even parts in North America. History ∙Norway declared their independence and drafted a constitution of their own. ∙In World War II, Germany attacked Norway on April ∙Member of N.A.T.O (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

Population and language ∙ In Norway the population is around million. ∙ Norwegian is the official language in Norway. ∙ ”Bookmal” is “book language.” These are the forms of language that they use in Norway.

Religion ∙ 86% of Norway’s population belongs to the state church, the Church of Norway. ∙ Freedom of religion is guaranteed. ∙ Less than half only attend church on holidays.

Visiting ∙ Most people have a regular social life and visit their friends and family regularly, in the past people would just show up. ∙ Hosts are supposed to allow refreshments and a place to sit. ∙You are not supposed to leave right after dinner.

Eating ∙Many families today eat dinner together and celebrate holidays. ∙They eat with a fork in their left hand and a knife in their right. ∙Children are taught to say “takk for maten” which means “thank you for the food”

recreation ∙In Norway they do a lot if winter sports. ∙1194 Winter Olympics were held in the city of Lillehammer. ∙In the summer they like to soccer, swimming, and hiking when the weather is nicer. ∙They also do a lot of reading.

The Arts Many families attend theatres and concerts. Rock and wood carving are an old traditional art. Folk tales about mythical creatures are also very popular.

Holidays Official holidays in Norway include: New Years, Easter, Labor Day, Constitution Day, And Christmas. Christmas is a very important holiday there. When they celebrate they have dinners, presents, and parties.

Government In Norway they have a Constitutional monarchy. There are 19 provinces and 165 chambers are elected every four years. Citizens can vote at the age 18 The king only has limited authority.

Education Schooling in Norway is free from ages The first form of school is called Constitute Primary School. The second form is called Secondary School.