Conclusion

From the interviews and observations that I made during my time in 4-H, the sheep project is proven to be a community. A specific discourse is shared among the members of the community. All members, once they are somewhat experienced, know the important meat parts of sheep, how to properly handle and show sheep, and how to seek help if needed. Even experienced members are learning new things about the sheep project as they go. Zach Canada said this is why showmen should have connections with sheep breeders. “Showing sheep is a learning process and you learn something new all the time.” Within the sheep project, the language and knowledge of the members continues to grow throughout the years in 4-H. However, there is much knowledge and language that is known to all the sheep project members. Through this shared knowledgeable information, the sheep community becomes a discourse community.