Curated OER
Mexican Culture “La Raspa”
Here are three lessons that work together to engage learners in a cultural and musical exploration. In lesson one the listen to the Mexican folk song, "La Raspa" and discuss cultural context. In lesson two they dance along to both "La...
Curated OER
American Culture in a Musical Setting
Students discover the significance of similarities and contrasts of three separate cultures of the United States through music. They take out maps and trace the expedition of the Spanish along the coasts of Mexico and North and South...
Curated OER
The Four Corners Region of the United States Cultures, Ruins and Landmarks
Students who live in the inner city are introduced to the four corners region of the United States. In groups, they examine how the region differs compared to where they live and their culture. They develop maps of the area and locate...
Curated OER
Fit for a Queen or King
Students identify and critique a classic sculpture from Mexico. In this art analysis lesson, students observe the St. Ferdinand statue from Mexico while identifying artistic features that might represent royalty. Students investigate a...
Curated OER
Christmas Around the World
Students demonstrate an understanding of how different cultures celebrate Christmas by participating in artistic, musical, culinary and role play activities.
Curated OER
American Civilization
First graders become familiar with Mayan culture, Aztec civilization and the Inca Empire.
Curated OER
Metal Tooling with Colored Pencils
Take your art class back centuries to the art of metal tooling. This is an art technique also referred to as embossing, or repajado in Mexico and South America. This is a fun project to introduce a new technique and new materials. This...
Curated OER
Lesson: Snake Handling
Are the studies of art and archeology connected? You bet they are! Young scholars research the ancient temples of Mexico by visiting an archaeology site. They describe the various temples they see, taking note of shapes, stairs, details,...
Curated OER
Everybody Celebrates
Examine the holidays of La Posada in Mexico, Hanukkah in Israel, and Kwanzaa in the United States. Learners identify the countries on a world map, listen to stories, create art projects for each holiday, and make recipes celebrating the...
Curated OER
Lesson Plan: Communicating With Body Language
The Olmec were an ancient people native to Mexico who lived from 1000-500 BC. Young artists examine the Olmec piece Seated Figure to analyze the use of body language to communicate a tone or feeling. They then use clay or play-dough to...
Curated OER
Let's Have a Fiesta!
First graders plan a Mexican fiesta, create a paper flower and cook a tortilla to eat with a fruit drink. They listen to Gary Soto's, Too Many Tamales and June Behrens', Fiesta! Cinco de Mayo.
Curated OER
If…Then…Ideas for History
Have your class examine a very old piece of art as they consider history, chronology, geography, culture, and tradition. They discuss the concept of ritual as it is associated with religious practices and research the spread of...
Curated OER
Winter Holiday Activities Extravaganza
Young scholars define culture and explore elements that are part of the custom or culture of a place. In this holiday lesson, students identify the cultures they participate in. Young scholars identify the differences in people's...
Curated OER
Cinco de Mayo - What is it?
Students, after examining why the fiesta Cinco de Mayo is celebrated, plan a fiesta that includes invitations, games, music, paper flowers, flags and a menu of authentic foods. By completing this assignment, they enhance their education...
Curated OER
Beisbol! Latino Baseball Pioneers and Legends
Students explore Latin America by researching the favorite past time, baseball. In this Latin culture lesson, students identify the leaders in the Latin American baseball movement such as Felipe Alou, Jose Mendze, and the great Roberto...
Curated OER
Mexican Folk Art: Sugar Skulls
Scholars use their knowledge of color to create vibrant skulls for Día de los Muertos. A thoughtful discussion brings forth information about the special holiday. A review of cool colors and warm colors prepares learners for the creation...
National Endowment for the Humanities
La Familia
Young scholars identify at least one country where the Spanish language is spoken, describe similarities and differences between Spanish, Mexican, and Puerto Rican families, and practice speaking the Spanish words for several family...
Curated OER
Huichol Yarn Painting
Young artists of many ages apply yarn painting techniques in combining their ideas and their art. After viewing actual examples of yarn paintings created by the Huichol people, learners choose an important scene from their own lives...
Smithsonian Institution
Dia de los Muertos: Celebrating and Remembering
Help scholars understand the history, geography, traditions, and art of Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. Find background information for your reference as well as a detailed cross-curricular lesson plan. Learners compare...