Books Lesson Plans

Eighth graders research the role of the first Spanish conquistadors who explored the now United States. Using the internet, they gather information on different explorers and write a paper about why he is important in American history. They practice saying English words that came from the Spanish languages and identify the major cities and states with Spanish origins.

Students identify the function of organizations, then read a news article about an organization called Room to Read that is sending books to poor countries. In this current events activity, the teacher introduces the article with a discussion and vocabulary activity, then students read the news report and write their thoughts in their journal. Lesson includes interdisciplinary follow-up activities.

Students compare modern-day books to manuscripts from the 13th century. In this comparative literature lesson, students observe various manuscripts and resources from given links. Websites and links are included along with extension activities.

Students examine the history of Spanish in what is now the United States. They examine the current language status of the Hispanic population. Students are able to characterize Spanglish and Chicano English. They examine some features of Chicano English.

Students in a Spanish class are introduced to the techniques of creative writing. In groups, they focus on the pre-writing section of creative writing and keep a folder of their works throughout the lesson. They end the lessons by using new vocabulary to write either a short story or a descriptive paragraph and share with the class.

Students, in a Spanish classroom, research Spanish speaking countries and create a PowerPoint presentation of that country. They are to use art, literature, history and culture in the presentation.

Students study the role of perspective and bias in research and examine the Spanish-American War and the regions effected. They have a debating contest regarding the Spanish American War and create a map which would depict the events and outcome of the Spanish American War.

Students compare clothing and activities typical in America to that of Spain and Mexico, identify articles of clothing in teacher's suitcase and determine which decade they represent, repeat Spanish vocabulary words that are attached to articles of clothing, and work in groups to create and perform in Spanish fashion show.

Students view pictures in their Spanish textbooks, discuss and listen to selection of Latin music, and read textbook passage to answer true/false questions about origins of bomba and plena. Students then practice Latin-style dance moves, choose type of music/dance to research, and create children's book to share with elementary students.

Watch the video, La Catrina, before reading the text as a class and translating Spanish to English. As young scholars read the book, they  practice Spanish pronunciation, develop Spanish vocabulary, and complete extension activities to reinforce their understanding of the text.