Gallery of Student Work

As the final project for our Animal Unit, the students make an Adopt-Me-Poster. The students are learning animal names. Introducing an animal of their choice is a chance to practice and expand upon their basic knowledge of the Spanish Language. 

For our House Unit, the students design and label the inside and the outside of their dream house. This is an opportunity for them to practice the vocabulary that corresponds with this unit.

Dia de Muertos or Day of the Dead, is my favorite unit! The students help me build an 'ofrenda' or altar. They are invited to bring pictures of family, friends, or even pets that have passed away to place on our alter. I bring in 'pan de muerto' or bread of the dead for students to taste. Inside of the bread is a couple of tiny plastic dolls. The student that gets a doll in their piece is responsible for making tamales at the next party. We also decorate 'calaveras' or skulls to wear. 

The Spanish Art Unit is a great unit! We learn about famous artists like Frida Kahlo from Mexico. When Frida was in school, she got very sick. She was stuck in bed for a long time. She was so bored that she would draw pictures of her feet. Students are encouraged to take their shoes off and draw pictures of their feet. Frida also has a famous motto "Viva la Vida." Students are encouraged to create their own motto or mantra. 

The first week of school is so much fun. It mostly consists of introductions, ice breakers, and team building. We start with the basics. Students introduce themselves and then they introduce a new friend. I ask for volunteers and we use puppets to practice as a class. 

As a fun project during the Animal Unit, students design their own zoo. They have a list of animal names in English and Spanish. We practice those names throughout the week. Then they choose their favorites to add to the Zoo. They are encouraged to be creative and come up with their own ideas for the zoo. 

During the Culture Unit we learn about the origin of alebrijes or spirit animals. Many students are familiar with alebrijes because they have seen the movie Coco. Students have the chance to design and introduce their own alebrijes. They are so impressive that they are put on the bulletin board in the hallway.