While learning about classroom and friendship related themes, Spanish students also celebrated Hispanic Heritage month (September 15 to October 15) with a variety of activities and experiences. Many students sampled platanos con queso fresco (plantains with fresh cheese) and a Mexican treat topped off learning about the origins of chocolate. We tried a dance step and played Spanish games. We counted to 100 along with two different countries: Mexico and Spain, comparing their similarities and differences. Cultural and community projects commenced with research on notable Hispanic Americans and by participating in a community ‘minga’. Students shared findings ‘cereal box’ style. Boxes were displayed and now decorate the classroom. Still practiced today, a ‘minga’ is an ancient South American tradition of voluntary, collective community work for the common good. Classes took turns in true ‘servant’s heart’ fashion, helping in the PC Center.
Vocabulary is expanding, evidenced by regular efforts to speak outside the classroom via Verbal Task Cards. Greetings, expressions, and Scripture are being practiced in hallways, at home, and even at work. We started writing to in-house Pen Pals and will embark on Guided Adventures to practice cultural experiences and in hopes of filling up our ‘fake’ passports with travels to the 21 Hispanic-speaking countries.
