Why Are We Afraid of

Friday the 13th?

Do you believe Friday the 13th to be unlucky? If so, then keep yourself out of catastrophe by not walking under open ladders, keep black cats from crossing your path, don't break a mirror and don't spill the salt!

Let's Investigate!

Why is the Number 13 supposed to be unlucky? Complete this scavenger hunt to find out.

     Your worksheet is here.

1.  So where does it come from -- the fear of 13?

2.  What else has contributed to 13's bad reputation?

Why 13 is unlucky!        And here!  - scroll down to about half way

3. Why has Friday come to be regarded as unlucky?

Why Friday?And hereAnd here also       And one more

4. So why is Friday 13th so fearful?

Why Friday 13th?More detailed information here

5. What taboos are associated with Friday 13th?

6. What is the story about "HMAS Friday"?

7. Fill in the superstitions sheet.

Your worksheet is here

Bad luckGood luckSuperstitionsCommon superstitions

8. What do you believe? Are you superstitious? Write you thoughts on the sheet. Write  in full sentences.  Two paragraphs should suffice.

Finished everything? Take the Phobia Quiz.