Eight Resources to Teach Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15 starts Hispanic Heritage Month, where Americans celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came  from countries such as Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. 

All students should learn about people of Hispanic heritage--whether these students are in ethnically diverse classrooms or not. Plan your lessons on Hispanic history and culture by using books, videos, activities, games, music, and more. Here are eight resources derived from TeacherVision, Education.com, and books with links to Amazon. 

1. The House on Mango Street Writing Activity: Have the class read The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, a story that follows a young Latina named Esperanza Cordero through her childhood growing up in Chicago. Afterwards, have students complete the worksheet provided by TeacherVision, where students can compare their goals and values with Esperanza's. The worksheet also asks students to reflect on ways they and Esperanza are alike, and ways they are different. With this free activity, students can see the struggle that young Latinas faced, and learn that their goals and values in life are not much different than young American natives. 
2. Traditional Circle Game: Take some time in the younger classroom to play the Traditional Circle Game, a game from Puerto Rico. Also known as rueda, the game requires a group of two or three circles of students, and sing the song, "A La Limon," provided by TeacherVision. The site instructs teachers to teach students that children all around the world do singing games, and instruct children to listen for songs that are louder than others. Sing the first phrase, and have them listen and raise their hands when they hear it. At the end of the game, they will be able to identify dynamic accents, as well as a song in Spanish. 
3. Make Aztec-Inspired Mosaic Plate: Central Mexico used to be home to the Aztec people, who are greatly known for their unique artifacts. Teach students about the Aztecs and Central Mexico by making their own Aztec-inspired mosaic plate. Education.com suggests teaching students background on the Aztecs, as well as going to the library and researching mosaic plates and masks for inspiration. 
4. In My Family: Books are great ways for students to learn and connect with characters through their adventures. Take some time to read In My Family by Carmen Lomas Garzas, where the author uses paintings and stories to depict memories of growing up in the traditional Mexican-American community in Texas. 
5. Mariachi Music: Teach students about Hispanic culture by introducing them to mariachi music. Instruct them on the background, song forms, instruments used, functions, and more. TeacherVision provides information, books, recordings, and songs to play in the classroom. 
6. Amazing Hispanic American History: A Book of Answers for Kids: Read and learn with the class about Hispanic history and culture with Amazing Hispanic American History: A Book of Answers for Kids by George Ochoa. Discover holidays, foods, dances, key figures of history, and more. 
7. Paper Cup Maracas: Have fun with students and help them make their own maracas and introduce them to Hispanic music and rhythm that can be found in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and Latin American folk music. 
8. The Rainbow Tulip: Read the story about Stella, who is different from the other children in her school. Stella loves her family and her Mexican heritage, but she wants to stand out, even though she won't look like the other girls at school.

Visit hispanicmonth.net for more information.

Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor