Alma Flor Ada: An Author Study
Grade level: ECE-K
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, visual art, science, mathematics, history, family history,
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: The literary works of Alma Flor Ada incorporate the Hispanic/Latino culture into folktales, fantasy, and realistic fiction. Many of her books are in English and Spanish. Students will learn about the diversity of families, the lifecycle of the butterfly, and how to write a letter to a storybook character. Lessons include putting together a family tree and art projects to make paper banners and decorate eggshells filled with confetti.
Resources:
A Piece of My Heart/Pedacito de mi corazon: The Art of Carmen Lomas Garza [E/S]
A Rose with Wings
A Surprise for Mother Rabbit
De Colores [CD]
De Colores and other Latin-American Folk Songs for Children
Dear Peter Rabbit
Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet in Spanish and English [E/S]
I Love Saturdays y Domingos [E/S]
In My Family/En mi Familia [E/S]
Lizard and the Sun, The/La lagartija y el sol [E/S]
Making Magic Windows: Creating Papel Picado/Cut-Paper Art with Carmen Lomas
Olmo Y La Mariposa Azul/Olmo and the Blue Butterfly [S]
Saturday Sancocho
Tamale Quilt, The: Story, Recipe, Quilt Pattern
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Alma Flor Ada: Latina Author
Grade level: 2-3
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, science, geography, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: Alma Flor Ada is a Cuban-American author of children’s books that incorporate the Hispanic/Latino culture into folktales, fantasy, and realistic fiction. Students will learn about making right decisions and being proud of who they are and where they come from. Lessons focus on service toward others on an individual basis, community service, working together, and learning ways to improve the world.
Resources:
A Rose with Wings
Chavez Poster [poster]
Dear Peter Rabbit
Fight in the Fields, The: Cesar Chavez and the Farm Workers Movement
Friend Frog
Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet in Spanish and English [E/S]
Gold Coin, The
Lizard and the Sun, The/La lagartija y el sol [E/S]
Rooster Who Went to His Uncle's Wedding, The
Three Golden Oranges, The
Under the Royal Palms: A Childhood in Cuba
Where the Flame Trees Bloom
With Love, Little Red Hen
Yours Truly, Goldilocks
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American Indian Mascots: Hype, Insult, or Ignorance
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
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Description: The controversy over the use of stereotypical American Indian (Native) images by sports, entertainment, and
educational institutions are examined. Students will develop awareness of the contemporary and historical settings
surrounding the issue and explore perspectives of imagery, mascots as symbols, and human rights.
Resources:
A Different Kind of Classroom: Teaching with Dimensions of Learning
American Indian and the Media, The
Dancing at Half Time: Sports and the Controversy over American Indian Mascot
Illinois Road Map [map]
In Whose Honor?: American Indian Mascots in Sports [video]
Northwest Territory during the Revolution 1775–1783/ 1783–1795 [map]
Team Spirits: The Native American Mascots Controversy
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American Indian Storytelling
Grade level: ECE-2
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, literature, nature
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
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Description: The American Indian culture is introduced through stories about animals and traditional myths. Students learn
such concepts as sharing and to not be greedy, boastful, or tease. This unit can be incorporated into themes about
ponds, rivers and streams, or animals. Students learn about storytelling, oral traditions, and diversity.
Resources:
Baby Rattlesnake
Did You Hear Wind Sing Your Name? An Oneida Song of Spring
Earth Spirit [CD]
Native American Animal Stories
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Americans Move West: The Santa Fe Trail
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican American, American Indian
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Description: Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican American, American Indian
Beginning with the basic concepts of commerce and communication, this study introduces students to the Manifest
Destiny and the historical importance of the Santa Fe Trail. Lessons include mapping of the Santa Fe Trail, time
lines, use of the trail, and the effects on the American Indian.
Resources:
Central United States Map [map]
Comanche Indians of North America [video]
Commerce of the Prairies
Down the Santa Fe Trail and into Mexico: The Diary of Susan Shelby Magoffin
Los Capitalistas: Hispano Merchants and the Santa Fe Trade
Santa Fe Trail, The
Tree in the Trail
United States Map [map]
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The Art of Tony Ortega
Grade level: 3-5
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, visual arts
Ethnicity addressed: Hispanics
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Description: Allow us to introduce you and your students to Colorado artist Tony Ortega and his beautiful artwork. Artist
Ortega brings a rich tapestry of memories and collection of art from northern New Mexico and themes that weave
Pre-Columbian art and Mexican folk art, Impressionist and the American artist into a wonderful spectrum that will
inspire and education everyone. Included in this topic of study are original prints by Mr. Ortega, the wonderful
book Who Am I? (illustrated by Mr. Ortega). Students will get first-hand practice on learning the painting techniques that have become Mr. Ortega’s signature as demonstrated in the videos Elements of Design and
Discovering Drawing.
Resources:
Reproductions of art by Tony Ortega
Who Am I? by George Rivera, illustrated by Tony Ortega
Living treasures of Colorado
Original framed Tony Ortega print
Mexicolor
Elements of Design
Principles of Design video
Discovering Drawing
Basic Printmaking by Bernard Toale
Coffee shop/diner reproduction by Edward Hopper
Waterlillies reproduction by Claude Monet
PowerPoint presentation on Tony Ortega working with students to create a school mural
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Aztec Folk Literature: Two Legends and a Folktale
Grade level: 2
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, visual art, poetry, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican Indian, Aztec
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Description: The Aztec culture is explored through folktales. Students study folktales that incorporate depth the thoughts,
decisions, and actions of the characters which will advance their own moral development, connect their own lives
to positive role models, and make vital connections to past civilizations. Lessons include composing a poem,
writing a book review, and art projects.
Resources:
Abuela's Weave
Hummingbird King/The
Hummingbird King/The [cassette]
Legend of Mexicatl, The/La Leyenda de Mexicatl
Lizard and the Sun, The/La lagartija y el sol [ES]
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Beyond the Glass Slipper: Cinderella Stories from Around the World
Grade level: 2-3
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, visual art, literature, vocabulary, art, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Asian, Mexican, African, Middle Eastern, European
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Description: There are up to 700 different versions of the Cinderella story from cultures around the world. Students will learn
about the common traits found in fairytales and to appreciate a wide variety of cultures as they explore a
wonderful collection of literary works. Lessons include writing activities, art projects, creating a map, and a
dramatic activity.
Resources:
Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella
Cinderella
Domitila: A Cinderella Tale from the Mexican Tradition
Eastern Woodlands Indians
Egyptian Cinderella, The
Gift of the Crocodile, The: A Cinderella Story
Golden Sandal, The: A Middle Eastern Cinderella Story
Jouanah, A Hmong Cinderella
Korean Cinderella, The
Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale
Persian Cinderella, The
Sootface: An Ojibwa Cinderella Story
Talking Eggs, The: A Folktale from the American South
Vasilissa the Beautiful
Yeh Shen: A Cinderella Story from China
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Biographies of Famous Hispanics, Latinos, and Chicanos
Grade level: 3
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: Students are introduced to contributions of famous Mexican American people to develop awareness of the
Hispanic culture and build pride in the heritage. This unit focuses on five important individuals: Cesar Chavez,
Simon Bolivar, Selena, Diego Rivera, and Ellen Ochoa. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of at least one of
the five through research and writing, and will produce timelines of their lives.
Resources:
César Chávez: A Triumph of Spirit
César Chávez: Hispanos Notables
Contenporary American Success Stories: Famous People of Hispanic Heritage
Diego [E/S]
Diego Rivera
Diego Rivera (Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists)
Diego Rivera: An Artist's Life
Fight in the Fields, The: Cesar Chavez and the Farmworkers Movement
Gloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan: Hispanos Notables [S]
Hispanic Magazine's Guide to Hispanic Excellence: Arts and Entertainment [video]
Hispanic Magazine's Guide to Hispanic Excellence: Sports [video]
Hispanic Magazine's Guide to Hispanic Excellence: The Leaders [video]
Hispanics of Achievement: Cesar Chavez
Pancho Villa
Pancho Villa: Hispanos Notables
Remembering Selena: A Tribute in Pictures and Words [E/S]
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California Missions
Grade level: 8-10
Implementation time: 4-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, vocabulary, art
Ethnicity addressed: Spanish, Mexican, American Indian
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Description: During the conquest and colonization of New Spain and other territories in the Western hemisphere, Spain chose
to extend its frontiers through the use of missions. This unit examines the establishment of these missions and their
purpose, and the effects they had on the Native Indians. Lessons include a timeline, note taking and writing
activities, creating a semantic web, studying architectural designs of missions, and making a clay model.
Resources:
California Missions: A complete Pictorial History and Visitor's Guide
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The: Teacher's Resource Manual
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The
Mexican American Literature
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Carmen Lomas Garza: Chicana Author and Illustrator
Grade level: ECE-2
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, science, mathematics, visual art, cooking, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: The artist Carmen Lomas Garza followed her childhood dream of becoming an artist utilizing oil, acrylics,
lithographs, and papel picado (Mexican cut paper art). Students will be introduced to the Mexican American
lifestyle through foods which are cooked in class as they study about this artist’s life. Lessons include the
exploration of various art mediums as students’ create their own works of art.
Resources:
A Piece of My Heart/Pedacito de mi corazon: The Art of Carmen Lomas Garza [E/S]
A Surprise for Mother Rabbit
Bakery Lady, The / La señora de la panadería [E/S]
De Colores and other Latin-American Folk Songs for Children
De Colores and other Latin-American Folk Songs for Children
Desert is My Mother, The / El desierto es mi madre [E/S]
Family Pictures / Cuadros de familia [E/S]
In My Family/En mi Familia
In My Family/En mi Familia [E/S]
Latina and Latino Voices in Literature for Children and Teenagers
Listen to the Desert / Oye al desierto [E/S]
Making Magic Windows: Creating Papel Picado/Cut-Paper Art with Carmen Lomas
On Ramons Farm
Tamale Quilt, The: Story, Recipe, Quilt Pattern
Too Many Tamales
Celebration of Mexicanos through Music, Dance
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Celebration of Mexicanos through Music, Dance, and Art
Grade level: K-2
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, mathematics, music
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: The tradition of celebrations of the Latino culture through music, dance, art, and food are explored in this unit.
Resources:
A Ticket to Mexico
Celebrating Cinco De Mayo: Fiesta Time!
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo: Holidays for Children Video Series [video]
Cinco de Mayo: Yesterday and Today
De Colores [CD]
De Colores and other Latin-American Folk Songs for Children
Families of Mexico [video]
Family Pictures / Cuadros de familia [E/S]
Fiesta U.S.A.
Fiesta! Mexico and Central America: A Global Awareness Program
Fiesta! Mexico and Central America: A Global Awareness Program [cassette]
Fiesta!: Mexico's Great Celebrations
Fiestas Holidays: Canciones Para Todo El Ano [S] [CD]
Hooray, a Pinata
Hurray for Three Kings' Day
In My Family/En mi Familia [E/S]
Latino Holiday Book, The: From Cinco de Mayo to Dia De Los Muertos [E/S]
Los Mariachis/ An Introduction to Mexican Mariachi Music [book/CD] [book/cassette]
Making Magic Windows: Creating Papel Picado/Cut-Paper Art with Carmen Lomas
Mexican American Hertiage: American Cultures for Children [video]
Mexico (Read-About Series)
Mexico: A True Book
Pablo's Tree
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Piñatas and Paper Flowers / Piñatas y Flores de Papel [E/S]
Too Many Tamales
Tortilla Factory, The
Una Tortilla Para Emilia [S]
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Changing Borders and Flags
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 3-9 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
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Description: The transitional period of the Mexican American War is explored and its effect on the territories and people of the
Southwest. Students will become familiar with the major characters, events, and laws from the early 1800s to the
early 1900s in the Southwest. Lessons include the use of a reading log, character analysis, and the construction of
maps.
Resources:
Atlas of Indians of North America
Inheritance of Strangers
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The: Teacher's Resource Manual
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Chicano Identity in the Poetry of Lorna Dee Cervantes and Ramon Del Castillo
Grade level: 11-12
Implementation time: 4-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, poetry
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: Chicano identity is explored through the poetry of two local poets: Dr. Ramon Del Castillo and Dr. Lorna De
Cervantes. Students will explore the elements of poetry, historical references to mythology and archetypes from
Meso America, and the influences of colonization, the Mestizaje, and Mexican American relations. Lessons
include strong vocabulary exercises and extensive note taking and writing activities culminating in composing
poetry from personal reflections of their own identity.
Resources:
500 Years of Chicano History in Pictures / 500 Años del Pueblo Chicano [E/S]
From the Corazon of a Bato Loco [E/S]
I am Joaquin: An Epic Poem [E/S]
Infinite Divisions: An Anthology of Chicana Literature
L.A.R.A.S.A. Report: La Raza—Identify Yourself (June 19930 [report]
Mexican American Heritage, The: with Writing Exercises
Practice of Poetry: Writing Exercises from Poets Who Teach/The
Tales from a Michoacano
Teachers and Writers Handbook of Poetic Forms/The
Writing Poetry
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Chinese New Year: An Explosion of Culture and Celebration
Grade level: 3-5
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: geography, reading, writing, history, science
Ethnicity addressed: Chinese
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Description: Students are introduced to China and its rich cultural heritage through engaging activities, videos and literature
tailored to each lesson. The Chinese New Year is a primary focus of this unit of study along with emphasis on
geography and map skills.
Resources:
China
A to Z China
Big Bird in China (video)
Look What Came From China
Families of China (video)
Tikki Tikki Tembo
The Emperor and the Kite
On Solid Ground
Sumi Boards
In the Snow
Count Your Way Through China
Abacus
The Chinese New Year
The Story of Chopsticks
The Story of the Chinese Zodiac
Chinese Character Stamps
Dragon Puppets
Zodiac Characters
CD: Masterpieces of Chinese Music
World Map
Map of Asia
Flag of China
Lon Po Po
Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China
The Magical Monkey King
At the Beach
Grandfather Tang’s Story
Happy New Year
Runaway Rice Cake
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Cinco de Mayo: A Historical Celebration
Grade level: K-2
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, mathematics, art, foreign language
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: The holiday of Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) is a Mexican celebration of the defeat of the French army on
May 5, 1862 in the town of Puebla, Mexico. Students will learn about this holiday and various holidays and fiestas
specific to the Mexican culture. Lessons introduce students to the music and instruments, counting in Spanish,
sombreros and American-style hats, the American and Mexican flags, making tortillas and piñatas.
Resources:
Celebrating Cinco De Mayo: Fiesta Time!
Cinco De Mayo (World of Holiday Series)
Cinco de Mayo: Holidays for Children Video Series [video]
Cinco de Mayo: Yesterday and Today
Count Your Way Through Mexico [E/S]
El Sombrero de Luis Lucero [S]
Fiesta!: Mexico's Great Celebrations
Hooray, a Pinata
Los Mariachis/ An Introduction to Mexican Mariachi Music [book/CD] [book/cassette]
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Sombrero of Luis Lucero, The
Sombreros del mundo Entero [S]
The Tortilla Factory
What Comes in 2's, 3's, and 4's?
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The Clash of Cultures: Montezuma Hosts Cortés
Grade level: 8
Implementation time: 4-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, art, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Spanish, Mexican, Aztec
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Description: This unit studies the origins of the Aztecs and their culture, including their religion, art, and ideas, the culture of
Spain in the 15th century, and accounts of the clash between them. Students will learn about the famous leaders
that played a major role in this era and their character development. Lessons include note taking and various types
of writing activities, creating a word map poster, and the reenactment of the Quetzalcoatl myth.
Resources:
Broken Spears, The: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico
Conquest of New Spain, The
Course of Mexican History, The
Five Letters of Cortes to the Emperor Hernando Cortes
In Search of History: The Aztec Nation [video]
Montezuma’s Mexico: Visions of the Aztec World
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Coming of Age
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, literature
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: Events in a Latino society that lead to a coming of age include: Confirmation, Quinciñeras, high school
graduation, receiving a driver’s license, and parenthood. These and other events are integral in making a transition
into a fully functioning and contributing member of society. Through reading, group activities, group discussions,
and self-evaluation activities, students will learn what coming of age means in the lives of Latinos and themselves.
Resources:
Always Running: La vida loca: Gang Days in L.A.
And the Earth Did Not Devour Him [E/S]
Bless Me, Ultima
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A Comparison of Holidays: Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Ramadan
Grade level: 2-3
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, vocabulary, cooking, art, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Jewish, African American, Muslim
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Description: Ramadan, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa are important holidays in the United States that are annually overshadowed by
Christmas. Ramadan is the time that Muslims show devotion to Allah. Hanukkah is an eight-day holiday that
commemorates a battle in Israel that is celebrated by the Jewish faith. Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday that
celebrates the richness of the African-American culture through seven principles. Lessons include an art project to
make lanterns for Ramadan, cooking the Challah bread for Hanukkah, and role-playing the principles of Kwanzaa.
Resources:
Celebrating Ramadan
Hanukkah Lights
Muslim Holidays
My First Kwanzaa Book
Seven Candles for Kwanzaa
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Conquerors and Victims: An Exploration of Race, Identity, and Advocacy through Latino History
Grade level: 11-12
Implementation time: 8 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, vocabulary, civics
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: The history of Hispanics/Latinos in the State of Colorado and throughout the Southwest United States with their
social issues and cultural significance developed into unrest in the 1960s which inevitably lead to the
establishment of the Latin American Research and Service Agency (L.A.R.A.S.A.) organization in Denver.
Students will study the tremendous change of the social climate over time with an emphasis on the history of the
1960s. Lessons include writing activities, timelines, creating genetic family trees, and critical thinking activities.
Resources:
500 Years of Chicano History in Pictures / 500 Años del Pueblo Chicano [E/S]
Chicano History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement [video]
Chicano: The History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement
From Indians to Chicanos: The dynamics of Mexican-American Culture
Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America
I am Joaquin: An Epic Poem [E/S]
L.A.R.A.S.A. Report: La Raza—Identify Yourself (June 1993) [report]
Writing Poetry
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The Conquest of the Aztec Civilization
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican Indian, Spanish, Aztec
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Description: The conquest of Mexico by Hernando Cortes is one of the most significant and important events in the Western
hemisphere. Students will learn about the geography of the conquest, Spanish exploration into Mexico by Cortez,
the landing at Veracruz, the Spaniards in Tenochtitlan, and the destruction of this great city. Lessons include a map
activity, research, class presentations, note taking and writing activities, and creating a timeline of events.
Resources:
Broken Spears, The: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico
Clash of Cultures: The People Who Met Columbus (500 Nations Series) [video]
Conquest of New Spain, The
Los Aztecas [video]
Mexico: The Rise and Fall of the Aztecs (500 Nations Series) [video]
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The Cowboys/Vaqueros
Grade level: ECE-K
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: history, mathematics, foreign language, visual art, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
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Description: The tradition of the vaqueros, charros, Mexican cowboys began to be developed on the haciendas (ranches) of
Mexico soon after it was conquered by Cortez in the 1500s. They developed the skills to round up, rope, and brand
cattle. In their new world they became a symbol of pride and patriotism. Charreadas, a rodeo-type competition
became popular which lead to a traditional celebration. Students learn the various aspects of being a cowboy and
living on a ranch. The influence of the Mexican culture on the old west is discovered.
Resources:
A Field Full of Horses
Armadillo Rodeo
Bill Pickett: Rodeo Rídín' Cowboy
Charro: The Mexican Cowboy
Costumbres del Cowboy [S]
Cowboy and the Black-eyed pea
Cowboy Bunnies
Cowboy Country
Cowboy Dreams
Cowboys (Fact or Fiction)
Cowpokes
El Caballo: Life Cycles [S]
Gullywasher, The/El chaparron torrencial
Horse: Life Cycles
I Want to be a Cowboy
Little Sure Shot
Matthew the Cowboy
On the Pampas
Rodeo Day
Three Friends/Tres Amigos: A Counting Book/Trest Amigos: Uncuento Para Con [E/S]
Wild Horse Family Book, The
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Curanderismo: Holistic Healing
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, literature
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Curanderismo is an art of healing that was influenced by Greek humoral medicine and was revived during the
Spanish Renaissance. It is a holistic or folk healing that is performed by a curandero or a curandera. Curanderismo
has been part of the Latino culture since the arrival of the Spanish in Mesoamerica during the 16th century.
Students will study the history, role, and function of curanderismo and conduct parallels with modern medicine.
Lessons include creating a literature log, collage, and informational chart.
Resources:
Bless Me, Ultima
Curanderismo: Mexican American Folk Healing [E/S]
Folk Healer: The Mexican-American Tradition of Curanderismo
Hispanic American Literature: A Brief Introduction and Anthology
Plantas Medicinales de Mexico: Usos y Remedios Tradicionales [E/S] [CD]
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The Denver March Powwow
Grade level: ECE-2
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, literature
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The annual Denver March Powwow is a celebration that honors friendships, food, and family through singing,
dancing, and socializing. Students learn the significance of the Powwow to American Indians. Lessons explore the
dress, dance, music, etiquette, and symbolism that are part of a Powwow celebration.
Resources:
Celebrating the Powwow
Denver March Pow Wow [video]
Drumbeat.Heartbeat: A Celebration of the Powwow
Gift of the Red Bird: A Spiritual Encounter
Here to Stay: Northern Cree [CD]
Jingle Dancer
Lakota Hoop Dancer
On the Pow Wow Trail [video]
Pow Wow Country
Powwow
Powwow Country: People of the Circle
Powwow: A Good Day to Dance
Regalia: Native American Indian/Small Book
Shannon: An Ojibway Dancer
Showtime Round Dance Songs: Northern Cree Singers [CD]
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The Desert
Grade level: ECE-K
Implementation time: 1-2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, science, visual arts
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, American Indian
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Description: The desert is made up of a variety of terrain, climates, plants, and animal life. It is explored through American
Indian and Hispanic legends, folklore, and fairy tales. Students learn about the weather, climate, landscapes,
animals, insects, and plant life as they delve into the literary works that bring the desert to life. Lessons will
introduce students to maps and modeled writing.
Resources:
Agua Agua Agua [S]
Desert Alphabet Book, The
Desert Dance
Desert is My Mother, The / El desierto es mi madre [E/S]
Desert Mermaid, The [E/S]
Legend of the Indian Paintbrush, The
Listen to the Desert / Oye al desierto [E/S]
See How They Grow: Desert Animals [video]
Tale of Rabbit and Coyote, The
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Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead
Grade level: 3-4
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, math, history, visual arts
Ethnicity addressed: Latinos
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Description: Dia de los Muertos highlights one of the most traditional times of the year for Latinos in which departed ancestors
are honored by friends, family and acquaintances. This unit of study presents nine excellent lessons that
introduces the concepts of celebrations, family traditions, historical significance of Day of the Dead, Death,
Culture, and Rituals. The literature and videos that support this topic are excellent and worthy of permanent
integration into classroom libraries.
Resources:
Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of Day of the Dead by Jorge Ancona Diaz
Day of the Dead: A Mexican American Celebration by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith
The Spirit of Tio Fernando by Janice Levy
Days of the Dead by Kathryn Lasky
Celebrating the Day of the Dead, Educational Video Network [VHS]
The Day of the Dead, The Carlex Company [VHS]
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Diego Rivera
Grade level: 3
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: The artist, Diego Rivera, became famous for his murals in cities throughout Mexico. These murals told stories
about the everyday life of the Mexican people. He also painted murals in the United States. This unit studies the
artist’s life and his work which depicts the history of the Mexican people. Students will create their own works of
art incorporating the elements learned through Rivera’s work.
Resources:
Diego [E/S]
Diego Rivera (Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists)
Diego Rivera Postcards [22 postcard set]
Diego Rivera Poster Set [set of 6 posters]
Diego Rivera: An Artist's Life
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Easter/Spring Celebration
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 1-2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The traditions associated with Easter and Spring such as dyed eggs, chocolate candies, baskets, bunnies, and more
are woven with Hispanic culture and how this season is celebrated. Students will explore the wonderful world of
chocolate and the tradition of colored eggs. Lessons incorporate hands-on activities, making a piñata, and creating
a carpet.
Resources:
A Piece of My Heart/Pedacito de mi corazon: The Art of Carmen Lomas Garza [E/S]
A Surprise for Mother Rabbit
Chocolate Rabbit, The
Del Cacao al Chocolate [S]
Dona Blanca and Other Hispanic Nursery Rhymes and Games
Fiesta U.S.A.
Fiestas Holidays: Canciones Para Todo El Ano [S] [CD]
Hispanic Holidays
Peter Cottontail
Peter Cottontail's Easter Book
Piñatas and Paper Flowers / Piñatas y Flores de Papel [E/S]
Tio Conejo: (Uncle Rabbit) and Other Latin American Trickster Tales [E/S] [cassette]
|
El Día de los Muertos
Grade level: 1
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, mathematics, art, cooking
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: El dia de los Muertos is a Mexican celebration similar to Memorial Day in remembering the dead yet more festive
like Halloween. It began as a month-long Aztec celebration of the dead. When the Spaniards arrived the holiday
changed and was held on November 2 and called All Hallows’ Eve. The traditions and symbolism surrounding this
ancient holiday are explored. Students will make a holiday bread, learn the writing process, and produce a classmade
book.
Resources:
Day of the Dead [E/S]
Day of the Dead: A Mexican-American Celebration
Days of the Dead
Pablo recuerda la fiesta del Dia de los Muertos [S]
Pablo Remembers: The Fiesta of the Day of the Dead [E/S]
Spirit of Tio Fernando, The/El espiritu de tio Fernando [E/S]
|
Essential Values Woven Through Hispanic Literature: Discovering the Soul of the People
Grade level: 8-10
Implementation time: 5-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, literature, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Through the exploration of Hispanic literature students discover how others have resolved conflicts through
essential values such as: family, respect, trust, and responsibility. Students will evaluate the impact of personal
decisions as lessons incorporate real-life situations. Students will learn to identify themselves ethnically in a
positive light. Lessons include journal and essay writing, oral presentations, and creating a piñata and a mural.
Resources:
Bless Me, Ultima
House on Mango Street, The
L.A.R.A.S.A. Report: La Raza—Identify Yourself (June 1993) [report]
Memories of Ana Calderon
Mexican American Literature
Yo!
|
Everyone Has a Tale
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, literature, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Folktales have been part of various cultures with interesting stories that have common messages. Spanish-
American folktales are explored and compared to folktales from other cultures. The elements of literature are
introduced as themes and values and dialect is explored. Students will write and dramatize their own folktales.
Resources:
A Gathering of Flowers: Stories About Being Young in America
Cuentos: Tales from the Hispanic Southwest [E/S]
Elements of Literature: Introductory Course
Spanish American Folktales
|
Exploring Northeast Native Americans: The Iroquois
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The Iroquois consisted of six nations: Seneca, Cayuga, Tuscarora, Onondage, Oneida, and Mohawk. The concept
of diversity amongst Native Americans is established as students learn of their history, governmental styles, oral
histories, art, and athletic games. Students explore the value of the cultural identity of the Native American Indian
as their knowledge is broadened. Lessons include oral presentations, research, and writing assignments.
Resources:
Gift of the Great Spirit, The [cassette]
Iroquios [overheads]
Iroquios: Their Art and Crafts>br />Realm of the Iroquois
What is the Great Law of Peace [pamphlet]
|
Faith Ringgold
Grade level: 3-5
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, literature, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: African American
Show Details...
Description: Faith Ringgold, an African American author and artist, provides students with a wonderful role model of a young
girl who developed a style that represents the self-expression of an African American female experience. Students
study the author as they develop their own artistic styles through art projects constructed from various mediums
which include fabric and sewing. Writing styles are explored with an emphasis on picture books.
Resources:
Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky
Dinner at Aunt Connie's House
Faith Ringgold Church Picnic Poster [poster]
Faith Ringgold Posters Kit [14 posters in set]
Faith Ringgold: A Study Guide for Teachers [pamphlet]
If a Bus Could Talk:The Story of Rosa Parks
Invisible Princess, The
My Dream of Martin Luther King
Talking to Faith Ringgold
Tar Beach
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Fiesta Mexicana: A Summer Latin Dance Experience
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, music, art, dance, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Summer can be a just the right time to learn of the culture of Mexico through its traditional dance. Students meet
with a lead teacher for two hours a day, four days a week; three days in a dance lab and one in the classroom. This
summer dance program engages students and encourages them to interact through dance.
Resources:
Dance as a Way of Knowing
Mexico [map]
Mexico the Culture
Mexico the Land
Mexico the People
|
From Corn to Tortillas
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 1-2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: history, science, foreign language, visual art, art, cooking
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Corn is an important agricultural product with deep rooted traditions in the Mexican culture. Students learn about
the growth of the corn plant and its significance and uses in the Hispanic/Latino culture, the history of the tortilla
and the making of clay pottery. Lessons include making tortillas and clay pots, and learning some words in
Spanish.
Resources:
Corn is Maize: The Gift of the Indians
La Tortilleria [S]
Too Many Tamales
Tortilla Factory, The
Tortillas Para Mama [E/S]
|
Good Intentions, Misunderstanding, Betrayal: A Study of the First Encounters Between Native Americans and Pilgrims
Grade level: 4-6
Implementation time: 6-8 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian, European
Show Details...
Description: When Europeans first reached the North American continent they encountered hundreds of tribes already inhabiting the land. This unit provides a more balanced account of the history of relations between the Native American Indians and European settlers and will challenge many prevalent myths and stereotypes. Lessons include note taking and writing activities, working with a graphic organizer, and creating a timeline and a scrapbook.
Resources:
People of the Breaking Day
Pilgrims of Plymouth, The
Thunder from the Clear Sky
|
Haiku and Beyond: A Study of Japanese Literature
Grade level: 3
Implementation time: 4-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, music, foreign language, performing arts, literature
Ethnicity addressed: Asian
Show Details...
Description: The Japanese culture has been shaped by the physical geography of this island which is prominently reflected in its
literature. Through the study of several genres of Japanese literature including poetry, legends, folktales, and ghost
tales, the geography and social studies is uniquely taught. Students will discover Haiku, the poetry of Japan, oral traditions, festivals, and kanji (calligraphy). Lessons include writing poetry, storytelling, using a graphic organizer,
and a dramatic performance.
Resources:
An Introduction to Haiku: An Anthology of Poems and Poets from Basho to Shiki
Bamboo Hats and a Rice Cake
Bon Odori Dancer
Cricket Songs: Japanese Haiku
Dancing Kettle, The: And Other Japanese Tales
Easy-To-Tell Stories for Young Children
Ghostly Tales of Japan [cassette]
Grass Sandals: The Travels of Basho
Haiku Handbook, The : How to Write, Share, and Teach Haiku
Haiku Picturebook for Children
Japan in the Classroom: Supplemental Guide [notebook]
Japan: The Land
Japanese Mythology
Kwaidan [video—English Subtitles]
Mysterious Tales of Japan
Oni Wa Soto a Tale from Japan
Samurai's Daughter, The: A Japanese Legend
|
Heralding Our Heroes’ Times
Grade level: 9-10
Implementation time: 4-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, science, mathematics, journalism
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Journalism is the avenue used to identify and understand the positive contributions of Hispanic/Latinos in our
society. Students will identify and research role models using a wide variety of sources and journalistic methods.
Then they will produce a newspaper featuring their chosen heroes. Lessons walk the teacher and students through
the newspaper production process. This is group project which enthusiastically engages the students.
Resources:
Hispanic Almanac, The: From Columbus to Corporate America
Recovering the US Hispanic Literary Heritage
Speaking for Themselves: Neomexicano Cultural Identity and the Spanish Language [E/S]
|
Hispanic Literature
Grade level: 3-4
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, foreign language, literature, journalism
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Hispanic literature is explored through a variety of books that immerse the students into the Hispanic/Latino
culture. Several of the books are written in both English and Spanish. Students will work with world maps, writing
strategies, and Venn diagrams to learn more about the literature they are reading.
Resources:
Amelia's Road
Carlos and the Squash Plant / Carlos y la planta de calabaza [E/S]
Desert Mermaid, The [E/S]
El Camino de Amelia
Encounter
Frida Maria
Friends from the Other Side / Amigos del otro lado [E/S]
Molly's Pilgrim
Night Crossing, The
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Tomás y la Señora: de la biblioteca [S]
Too Many Tamales
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The Impact of the Mexican Revolution on the United States
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 4-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, visual art, civics
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: The Mexican Revolution lasted ten years from 1910–1920 with a deep and lasting impact on two nations: the
United States and Mexico. Students study the key highlights of the revolution and focus on the cause and effect
between the different political leaders and their agendas. Lessons examine the migration of thousands of Mexicans
into the U. S., the life they lead, and their contributions with the subculture that emerged.
Resources:
500 Years of Chicano History in Pictures / 500 Años del Pueblo Chicano [E/S]
Corridos Mexicanos Y Chicanos [CD]
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The: Teacher's Resource Manual
North From Mexico: The Spanish-Speaking People of the United States
U.S.–Mexican War, The
|
In Memory of Sand Creek
Grade level: 9-11
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, science, civics
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The massacre at Sand Creek of the inhabitants of a Native American Indian village in 1864 remains a painful part
of Colorado history. This event and the controversy surrounding it are brought to life and examined. Students will
sharpen their skills in geography, problem solving, team building, writing, research, political science, and
historical inquiry. As a culminating activity, students will form teams and debate four key issues pertaining to this
event.
Resources:
American West, The
Blood at Sand Creek: The Massacre Revisited
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West
Extraordinary People in Extraordinary Times: Heroes, Sheroes, and Villains
Four Great Rivers to Cross: Cheyenne History, Culture, and Traditions
Song of Sorrow: Massacre at Sand Creek
Tears in the Sand [video]
|
Infinite Skies: Bessie Coleman, Mae Jemison, and Ellen Ochoa
Grade level: 11-12
Implementation time: 6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, visual art, vocabulary, work place, careers, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, African American
Show Details...
Description: The lives of three female aviators in American history are explored: Bessie Coleman, Mae Jemison, and Dr. Ellen
Ochoa. Students will learn about the history of the roaring twenties, how legacies affect our lives, and the
characteristics necessary for a successful career in any field. Lessons include creating a flow chart, writing
activities, art projects, and performing skits.
Resources:
Cannery Women, Cannery Lives: Mexican Women, Unionization, and the California Food Processing Industry, 1930-1950
Ellen Ochoa
Find Where the Wind Goes: Moments from My Life
Fly High! The Story of Bessie Coleman: The Story of Bessie Coleman
Fly, Bessie, Fly
From Out of the Shadows: Mexican American Women in the Twentieth-Century Am
Latinas: Hispanic Women in the U.S.
Life of an Astronaut, The
Mae Jemison
Mexican American Family Album, The
Nobody Owns the Sky: The Story of "Brave Bessie" Coleman
Notable Hispanic American Women: Book II
Queen Bess: Daredevil Aviator
Up in the Air: The Story of Bessie Coleman
|
An Introduction to Navajo Culture
Grade level: 4-6
Implementation time: 5-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, foreign language, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The southwest United States is an area rich with the history of the Navajo. This unit is a brief introduction to the
Navajo people, their customs and traditions, and weaving. Students learn about the weaving process and design
elements of Navajo art. Some of the words of the Navajo language are briefly listed.
Resources:
A Rainbow at Night: The World in Words and Pictures by Navajo Children
Ashkii and His Grandfather
Grandfather's Story of Navajo Monsters
Kinaalda: A Navajo Girl Grows Up
Little Herder in Autumn
Magic Weaver of Rugs, The: A Tale of the Navajo
Navajo ABC: A Dine Alphabet Book
Navajo Wedding Day: A Dine Marriage Ceremony
Navajos, The: A First Americans Book
Shephard Boy, The
Songs from the Loom: A Navajo Girl Learns to Weave
Woven by the Grandmothers: Nineteenth-Century Navajo Textiles from the Nati
|
Jan Romero Stevens: 1953–2000
Grade level: ECE-1
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, mathematics, science, visual art, foreign language
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Asian
Show Details...
Description: Jan Romero Stevens was a popular columnist, editor, and reporter for the Arizona Sun newspaper. She is best
known for her children’s book series about a main character named “Carlos,” his family, and his friend Gloria.
These books are written in English and Spanish. Students will enjoy the adventures of Carlos as they learn about
the Hispanic/Latino culture. Lessons include art projects and counting in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
Resources:
Arizona State [map]
Carlos and the Carnival/Carlos y la feria [E/S]
Carlos and the Cornfield / Carlos y la milpa de maíz [E/S]
Carlos and the Skunk/Carlos y el zorrillo [E/S]
Carlos and the Squash Plant / Carlos y la planta de calabaza [E/S]
Carlos Digs to China/ Carlos excava hasta la china [E/S],br />Corn is Maize: The Gift of the Indians
Dear Peter Rabbit
Family Pictures / Cuadros de familia [E/S]
Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet in Spanish and English [E/S]
In My Family/En mi Familia [E/S]
Making Magic Windows: Creating Papel Picado/Cut-Paper Art with Carmen Lomas
Pablo's Tree
Snowy Day, The
Tortilla Factory, The
|
Kung-his Fa-ts’ ai! A Chinese New Year Celebration for Primary Grades
Grade level: K-2
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: geography, reading, writing, history, science
Ethnicity addressed: Chinese
Show Details...
Description: Students are introduced to China and its rich cultural heritage through engaging activities, videos and literature
tailored to each lesson. The Chinese New Year is a primary focus of this unit of study along with emphasis on
geography and map skills.
Resources:
China
A to Z China
Big Bird in China (video)
Look What Came From China
Families of China (video)
Tikki Tikki Tembo
The Emperor and the Kite
On Solid Ground
Sumi Boards
In the Snow
Count Your Way Through China
Abacus
The Chinese New Year
The Story of Chopsticks
The Story of Chinese Zodiac
Chinese Character Stamps
Dragon Puppets
Zodiac Characters
CD: Masterpieces of Chinese Music
World Map
Map of Asia
Flag of China
Lo Po Po
Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China
The Magical Monkey King
At the Beach
Grandfather Tang’s Story
Happy New Year
The Runaway Rice Cake
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La Mariposa/The Butterfly
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 1-2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, science, mathematics, vocabulary, visual art, poetry
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, African American
Show Details...
Description: Mariposas (the Spanish word for butterflies) are beautiful insects with a fascinating metamorphosis. Students will
discover the wonderful world of butterflies through literary works, art projects, and poetry. To enhance this unit it
is suggest that larvae be purchased for students to observe and keep a chart of the life cycle that takes place.
Resources:
A Rose with Wings
Butterfly Alphabet Book, The
Butterfly Life Cycle, The [poster]
Descubre Mariposas [S]
From Caterpillar to Butterfly
La Mariposa
La Mariposa Bailarina [S]
Olmo Y La Mariposa Azul/Olmo and the Blue Butterfly [S]
|
Latina Women
Grade level: 3-5
Implementation time: 4-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, visual art, music
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Eight notable Latina women authors, musicians, and artists and their personal history and contributions are
interwoven with cultural themes. The Latina women are: Gloria Anzaldúa, Lulu Delacre, Jan Romero Stevens,
Leyla Torres, Frida Kahlo, Selena Quintanilla Perez, Gloria Estefan, and Joan Baez. Students will learn about self
portraits, curanderismos, masks, cooking, Tejano music, and social activism.
Resources:
Carlos and the Squash Plant / Carlos y la planta de calabaza [E/S]
Contenporary American Success Stories: Famous People of Hispanic Heritage: Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo [30 postcard set]
Frida Kahlo Postcards [set of 21 postcards]
Friends from the Other Side / Amigos del otro lado [E/S]
Gloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan: Hispanos Notables [S]
Prietita and the Ghost Woman / Prietita y la Llorona [E/S]
Remembering Selena: A Tribute in Pictures and Words/ Recordando a Selena [E/S]
Saturday Sancocho
Songs of the Homeland [video]
|
Latinos in War: The American Military Experience
Grade level: 11-12
Implementation time: 4-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: From the Revolutionary War to the Gulf War Mexican Americans have been fighting for America. Students will
discover the contributions made by Americans of Mexican decent that have long been overlooked in the history
books. Lessons examine the heroic acts and medals of honor awarded to Hispanic/Latinos in American wars,
discrimination and poverty, the roles they’ve played in American society, and social change.
Resources:
Chicano History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement [video]
Chicano: The History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement
Hispanic Almanac, The: From Columbus to Corporate America
Us and Them: A History of Intolerance in America
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Lessons in Courage: Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges
Grade level: 1
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, mathematics, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: African American
Show Details...
Description: Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges are three individuals that have shaped race relations that have
impacted our history in the 20th century. Students will discover their similarities with these leaders as they learn of
their childhood and contributions. Lessons include art projects, literary works, and a reenactment of the famous
bus ride that Rosa Parks took.
Resources:
A Picture Book of Rosa Parks
Dear Dr. King: Letters from Today's Children to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King
Martin Luther King, Jr.: Young Man with a Dream
Norman Rockwell's America
Other Side, The
Story of Ruby Bridges, The
Through My Eyes
What is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?
Working Cotton
|
Mayan Mathematics and Architecture
Grade level: 5-8
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, mathematics, visual art
Ethnicity addressed: Mayan
Show Details...
Description: The Maya civilization existed about two thousand years ago. Two intriguing aspects of this civilization are its
mathematics and architecture. Students will learn of the Mayan number system which used base 20 and contained
the number zero. Lessons examine the architecture of a Mayan temple that incorporates the building a Mayan
temple with a variety of mediums: paper, paper maché, cardboard, clay, wood, and drawing via a computer.
Resources:
Intermediate Math Puzzles
Lost Cities of the Maya
Lost Civilizations: A Journey Into the Past
Lost Civilizations: An Exploration Kit
Pyramid
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Mercado: Trading at the Marketplace
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, mathematics, history, geography, science, vocabulary, foreign language, art, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican Indian
Show Details...
Description: The marketplace, mercado in Spanish, was found in every Mexican village and used as the common meeting place
for doing business and socializing. This aspect of the Mexican culture is bountifully explored with lessons on
agriculture, geographic regions, and U.S. and Mexican currency. Students will enjoy literary works in English and
Spanish, art projects, learning words in Spanish, and reenacting a legend.
Resources:
Angel's Kite/La estrella de Ángel [E/S]
Calor: A Story of Warmth for All Ages
Carlos and the Cornfield / Carlos y la milpa de maíz [E/S]
Colors of Mexico
Count Your Way Through Mexico
Day of the Dead [E/S]
Diez deditos = Ten Little Fingers and Other Play Rhymes and Action Songs [E/S]
El gusto del mercado mexicano/ A Taste of the Mexican Market [E/S]
Hispanic Games and Rhymes: Rimas y Juegos en Espanol [E/S]
Hooray, a Pinata
Josefina
Legend of Food Mountain: The montana del alimento
Market Day
Musicians of the Sun
My First 100 Words in Spanish and English [E/S]
My Mexico–Mexico mio
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Uno, Dos, Tres; One, Two, Three [E/S]
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The Mexican American War
Grade level: 10-12
Implementation time: 5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, journalism
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: One of the most significant events in the history of the United States is the Mexican American War of 1846 where
the United States gained 529,000 square miles of valuable Mexican territory and resources. Students will examine
the rationales for the war, the various battles fought by two prominent generals, the dispute over the national
border, war personalities, and post war reflections. The unique unit assessment involves the students in the making
of a newspaper of the Mexican American war.
Resources:
La Guerra Entre Los Estados Unidos y Mexico [S] [video]
La Historia de Los Estados Unidos: La Diversidad De Sus Pueblos [video]
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The: Teacher's Resource Manual
Mexican American Literature
So Far from God: US War with Mexico, 1846–1848
U.S.-Mexican War, The
U.S.–Mexican War, The: 1846–1848 [video]
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The Mexican Muralist Movement and an Exploration of Public Art
Grade level: 10-12
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: Mural paintings are the oldest form of artistic, political, and social expression in history. The works of three
Mexican muralists are introduced and interpreted: Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro
Siquerios. Students will explore the styles, themes, and topics of mural painting. Lessons include the major events
of the history of Mexico and the Mexican Revolution.
Resources:
Ceramics Monthly [magazine]
Course of Mexican History, The
Emanuel Martinez
Graffiti Verite [video]
History of Mexico, The [video]
Mexican American Heritage, The: with Writing Exercises
Mexican Muralists: Orozco, Rivera, Siqueiros
Rivera: Portrait of an Artist: The Frescoes of Diego Rivera [video]
Signs From the Heart: California Chicano Murals
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The Mother Culture of Mexico: The Olmecs
Grade level: 6
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican Indian
Show Details...
Description: Students are taken on a 40,000-60,000 year journey to Mesoamerica to a time where early hunters set the stage for
interdependence of these early inhabitants. The Olmecs as the mother culture of Mexico dominate scientific and
historical inquiry of early Mexico. This Alma unit of study is used as a supplemental guide for the “Peoples
World Cultures: Latin America” textbook which is included in this kit. Students receive a geography text and a
student edition of Peoples World Cultures: Latin America. The main focus of the study of Ancient Civilizations is
an in-depth study of the Olmecs.
Resources:
Map of Mexico transparency
Using Geography: Latin America
Peoples World Cultures: Latin America
Mexico
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Music of the Andean Altiplano
Grade level: 4-8
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, visual art, mathematics, music
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican Indian
Show Details...
Description: The people of the Andean Altiplano have the longest music tradition in Latin America dating back to the Inca
Empire. This music is played on the sikus (panpipes) which have a distinctive and hauntingly beautiful sound.
Students will study about the Quechua and Aymara communities and learn about the professional lives of two
Denver musicians who perform on the siku pipes. Lessons include composing music, performing, and building
siku pipes.
Resources:
A Singing Wind: Songs & Melodies from Ecuador [book/cassette]
Classical Flute (wood) [instrument]
Historical Atlas of the World
Mosheno (white PVC double pipes) [instrument]
Ocarina (clay flute) [instrument]
Pinkillo (wood flute—large) [instrument]
Pinkillo (wood flute—small) [instrument]
Quena (wood and single PVC pipes) [instrument]
Siku (wood pipes—bound) [instrument]
Square Wood Flute [instrument]
Wayanay: The Magic Music of the Andes [CD]
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Music of the Tex-Mex Border Region
Grade level: 7-8
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, music
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican, European
Show Details...
Description: A unique culture evolved around the Texas-Mexico border region which is called Tejano. By the 1940s Tejano
music had become a mixture of European, Spanish, American, and Mexican influences. Students will be immersed
in the history of the region, the history of the music and its multicultural influences, and musicians who have made
Tejano music famous. Students will enjoy composing their own accompaniment of Tejano music and may even
write their own lyrics.
Resources:
A Texas-Mexican Cancionero: Folksongs of the Lower Border
Baton [instrument]
Castanets—wood [instrument]
Chulas Fronteras [video]
Claver—wood (set of two) [instrument]
Exploring Rhythm Instruments
Finger Cymbals—metal (sets of two) [instruments]
Hand Cymbals with wood handle [instrument]
Hand Drum with Handle [instrument]
Hooked on Polkas 2 [CD]
Johann Strauss—Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra: The Best of Vienna [CD]
Sandpaper Blocks (sets of two) [instrument]
Selena
Sleigh Bells (sets of three) [instrument]
Songs of the Homeland [video]
Tambourine [instrument]
Tejano and Regional Mexican Music
Triangle with Wand [instrument]
With His Pistol in His Hand: A Border Ballad and It's Hero
Wood Block Pipes with Wand [instrument]
Wood Sticks (set of two) [instrument]
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Only What We Need: Living in Harmony with Nature
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, mathematics, science, art, cooking, music
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: American Indians lived in harmony with nature. Students will take a historical journey beginning with the Plains
Indians and their use of teepees to the buffalo as a source of food, clothes, and blankets. In the world of dream
catchers, pottery, corn grinders, weaving, and cooking, students learn about the American Indian culture. Lessons
include a wide variety of literary works, art projects of pottery and weaving, and cooking fry bread.
Resources:
A Rainbow at Night: The World in Words and Pictures by Navajo ChildrenAll Spirits Sing [CD]
Brother Wolf: A Seneca Tale
Buffalo Dreams
Children of Clay: A Family of Pueblo Potters
Colors of the Navajo
Dreamcatcher
Dreamplace
Four Seasons of Corn: A Winnebago Tradition
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message
If You Lived with the Hopi
Indians of the Great Plains
Knots on a Counting Rope
Ledgerbook of Thomas Blue Eagle, The
Many Nations: An Alphabet of Native America
Northwoods Cradle Song: From a Menominee Lullabye
Powwow
Pueblo Indians of the Southwest
Songs from the Loom: A Navajo Girl Learns to Weave
Ten Little Rabbits
Under the Green Corn Moon: Native American Lullabies [CD]
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Our Stories, Our Families, Our Culture
Grade level: 7-9
Implementation time: 6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, art, family history
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The history of the Mexican-Americans in the Southwest is interwoven with Hispanic family values. Students will
look at the Hispanic/Latino heritage, culture, and values of the past and how they influence their lives today.
Students will put together their own family tree, conduct interviews and research for their family history, and write
their own life story.
Resources:
Cuentos From My Childhood: Legends and Folktales of the Northern New Mexico
Hispanic, Female and Young: An Anthology
Listen, A Story Comes/ Esucha, que viene un cuento [E/S]
Mexican Ghost Tales of the Southwest: Stories and Illustrations
Traditional Crafts from Mexcio and Central America
Watch Out for Clever Women! / ¡Cuidado con las mujeres astutas! [E/S]
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Pat Mora: An Author Study
Grade level: ECE-K
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, science, mathematics, visual art, foreign language, poetry, art, cooking
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Pat Mora is the author of children’s nonfiction books and poetry that emulate the Hispanic/Latino experience in
the United States. Most of her books are written in English and Spanish. Lessons teach the importance of reading
and the library and the Hispanic/Latino culture. Students will enjoy cooking, art projects, writing poetry, and
creating their own marketplace and selling their own wares.
Resources:
A Piece of My Heart/Pedacito de mi corazon: The Art of Carmen Lomas Garza [E/S]
Agua Agua Agua [S]
Bakery Lady, The / La señora de la panadería [E/S]
Delicious Hulabaloo/Pachanga deliciosa [E/S]
Desert Dance
Desert is My Mother, The / El desierto es mi madre [E/S]
Families of Mexico [video]
Listen to the Desert / Oye al desierto [E/S]
Making Magic Windows: Creating Papel Picado/Cut-Paper Art with Carmen Lomas
Mexican American Hertiage: American Cultures for Children [video]
Pablo's Tree
Tomás y la Señora: de la biblioteca
Uno, Dos, Tres; One, Two, Three
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Pepper, Pepper Plants!
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, science, mathematics, art, cooking, performing arts, nature
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Mexican
Show Details...
Description: The Mexican culture is explored through the world of plants especially such staples as corn, peppers, squash, and
pinto beans that are used in many Mexican dishes. Students will learn about the plant and grown cycles and how to
record plant growth. Lessons incorporate instructional strategies such as comparing and contrasting, investigating,
dramatization, sequencing, visualization, and storytelling. This unit culminates in a grand Fiesta!
Resources:
A sembrar sopa de verduras [S]
Carlos and the Cornfield / Carlos y la milpa de maíz [E/S]
Carlos and the Squash Plant / Carlos y la planta de calabaza [E/S]
Colors of Mexico
Count Your Way Through Mexico [E/S]
Cuckoo/Cucu [E/S]
Growing Vegetable Soup
Hispanic Games and Rhymes: Rimas y Juegos en Espanol [E/S]
Laughing Tomatoes and Other Spring Poems/ Jitomates Risuenos y ostro poemas [E/S]
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Pumpkin Fiesta
Sip, Slurp, Soup, Soup—Caldo, Caldo, Caldo [E/S]
Tortilla Factory, The
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¡Piñatas!
Grade level: 3
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Piñatas are a Mexican tradition at most fiestas and celebrations especially during Christmas and birthdays.
Students will learn about the history of piñatas and their importance in the Hispanic/Latino community. In
cooperative groups students will make piñatas and present them to the class with the information they have
learned.
Resources:
Family Pictures / Cuadros de familia [E/S]
Fiesta!: Mexico's Great Celebrations
Hooray, a Pinata
Piñata Maker, The / El pinatero [E/S]
Piñatas and Paper Flowers / Piñatas y Flores de Papel [E/S]
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Plants/Las Plantas
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, science, mathematics, vocabulary, nature, cooking
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: When spring officially begins in North America the weather warms and plants grow once again. Students will
learn about the seasons, seeds and their plant counterparts, the plant growth cycle, and food-producing plants.
Lessons include literary works in English and Spanish, foods of the Hispanic/Latino culture, planting seeds and
monitoring their growth, and a recipe for cornmeal pancakes.
Resources:
After the Storm
Carlos and the Cornfield / Carlos y la milpa de maíz [E/S]
Carlos and the Squash Plant / Carlos y la planta de calabaza [E/S]
Como Crece una Semilla [S]
Como Sabes Que Es Otono?/How Do You Know It's Fall? [S]
De la Flor a la Miel [S]
De la Semilla a la Fruta [S]
Dig and Sow! How do Plants Grow? : Experiments in the Garden
El huerto (Mis Plantas)
El Invierno: Las Cuatro Estaciones [S]
El Libro de las Palomitas de Maiz [S]
El Otono: Las Cuatro Estaciones [S]
El Verano: Las Cuatro Eastaciones [S]
From Seed to Sunflower
La Primavera/Spring: Las Cuatro Estaciones/the 4 seasons [S]
La Tortilleria [S]
Las Plantas
Plantas [S]
Pumpkin Fiesta
Sunflower
Tamale Quilt, The: Story, Recipe, Quilt Pattern
Watering Can, Yellow [8 inch watering can]
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The Rise of the United Farmworkers Union: A Study of the Chicano Rights Movement
Grade level: 8-10
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The Hispanic/Latino struggle for basic human rights was epitomized in California by farm workers. In 1962 Cesar
Chavez and Dolores Huerta began to organize a union which led to a five-year strike and boycott against grape
growers. Students will examine the formation of the United Farm Workers (UFW) union, the specifics of the
strike, and the effects the strike had on local communities. Lessons include a theatrical performance of a Theatro
Campesino skit that involves script writing and working together in small groups.
Resources:
César Chávez: A Triumph of Spirit
Circuit, The : stories from the life of a migrant child
Fight in the Fields, The: Cesar Chavez and the Farmworkers Movement
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The
Latino Experience in U.S. History, The: Teacher's Resource Manual
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Saving the Rain Forest
Grade level: 2-3
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, science
Ethnicity addressed: Latinos
Show Details...
Description: A must for ELS-S classrooms! The lessons that are in Spanish will reach those students whose language
dominance is still the native language. Lessons have been developed using the Sheltered Instruction Observation
Protocol (SIOP) model. Emphasis is on written and oral language. Students will study the layers of the rain
forest, deforestation and the serious implications for the animals whose primary habitat is the rain forest as well as
the survival of the people who live in the rain forest.
Resources:
Fernando’s Gift/ El Regalo de Fernando by Douglas Keister
El Gran Capoquero por Lynne Cherry
Rain Forest: Open your eyes to a world of discovery an Eye Wonder collection
Chico Mendes: Fight for the Forest by Susan DeStefano
Rain Forest Explorer from the habit explorer collection
La selva tropical de la Biblioteca de Descubrimientos Two-Can
The Vanishing Rain Forest by Richard Platt
Selve Tropical: Abre los ojos a un mundo de descubriminetos del Me prgunto
Rain Forest by Helen Cowcher
El Bosque Tropical by Helen Cowcher
Rain Forest for Children: People of the Rain Forest
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Science of the People
Grade level: 8-10
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, science, mathematics
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American, Aztec/Mayan
Show Details...
Description: The scientific method and way of thinking are examined through contribution of Hispanic/Latino scientists.
Lessons are arranged in chronological sequence beginning with Mayan mathematical science and Aztec
measurement and ending with the accomplishments of 20th century Hispanic/Latino scientists. Students will
conduct experiments and do exercises to strengthen their critical and scientific thinking. This unit was written to
correspond with the Colorado 9th grade earth or life science curriculum.
Resources:
Latino Women of Science
Latino Women of Science Teacher's Guide
Multicultural Women of Science: Three Centuries of Contributions with Hands
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Shaping the Law of the Land: Hispanics in the Colorado Legislature
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 8 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, civics, vocabulary, Colorado history
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Hispanics have served in the Colorado State legislature since 1861 making contributions that have shaped the
Resources:
500 Years of Chicano History in Pictures / 500 Años del Pueblo Chicano [E/S] Chicano: The History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement Colorado's Government: Structure, Politics, Administration and Policy Historical Atlas of Colorado Historical Atlas of the American West New York Times Almanac 2003 The Supplemental Guide to Shaping the Law of the Land [supplemental guide] We Were Chicanos: Remembering Richard Castro [video] Supplemental Guide
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Si Se Puede: An Interdisciplinary Study of Chicano Activism
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, civics, geography, economics, visual arts, science, world languages
Ethnicity addressed: Latinos
Show Details...
Description: This unit of study introduces students to the inroads made by two giants who brought the voices from the fields to
the forefront of the labor movement, Delores Huerta and Cesar Chavez. Lessons in this unit encourage students to
consider their civic responsibility as citizens of the country and to advocate for those who often don’t have a voice
in mainstream America. Some of the key concepts presented are morality, values, and justice as they relate to
social, economic, and political power of the agriculture industry in the United States.
Resources:
Emanuel Martinez
Latinos in American History: Dolores Huerta
Many Faces of Mexico
The Mexican American Heritage
Portrait of the Artist as the Virgen de Guadalupe
Rethinking Globalization: Teaching for Justice in an Unjust World
Common Man, Uncommon Vision
My Family/Mi Familia
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The Spanish Conquest of Mexico and the Role of La Llorona
Grade level: 6-7
Implementation time: 4-6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, performing arts
Ethnicity addressed: Spanish, Mexican, Aztec
Show Details...
Description: The legend of La Llorona and the life of Doña Marina are paralleled to uniquely teach the conquest of the Aztecs.
Doña Marina, an Aztec princess who had been sold into slavery, played a vital role in Cortés’s war on the Aztecs.
Lessons include studying the history of Mexico and the geographical setting of the Aztec Empire. Students will
hold a mock trial for Doña Marina and turn the legend of La Llorona into a theatrical play.
Resources:
The Aztecs
The Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico
In the Shadow of Tlaloc: Life in a Mexican Village
La Llorona [E/S]
La Llorona: The Weeping Women [E/S]
Mexican Ghost Tales of the Southwest: Stories and Illustrations
Weeping Woman: La Llorona and other stories [E/S]
Women Singing in the Snow: A Cultural Analysis of the Chicana Literature
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Spanish Exploration of Colorado
Grade level: 3-5
Implementation time: 3-5 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, Colorado history
Ethnicity addressed: Spanish, Mexican, American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The southwest United States, including Colorado, was explored primarily during the sixteenth and seventeenth
centuries. Students will study Francisco Coronado and other explorers who participated in the discovery and
exploration of Colorado and examine the type of equipment that was needed by these explorers.
Resources:
Coronado: Dreamer in Golden Armor
Coronado's Golden Quest
Legend of the Indian Paintbrush, The
Questions and Answers About Explorers
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Spanish Missions in Florida, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona
Grade level: 5
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, art
Ethnicity addressed: Spanish, American Indian
Show Details...
Description: Spain established missions as a method of colonizing the new world which had a profound and lasting effect on
the people who inhabited the land. Students will learn about the purpose and role of missionaries in the
colonization process, the geography of the southwest United States, the history of the Alamo, and the effect on
Native American. Students will enjoy creating a replica of a mission complete with animals, plants, and buildings.
Resources:
Projects and Layouts (California Missions)
Royal Roads, The: Spanish Trails in North America
Spanish Roots of America
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Spanish Settlement and Hispanic History of Denver and Colorado
Grade level: 3-4
Implementation time: 3-4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, vocabulary, Colorado history
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The influence of the Spanish and Mexican cultures shaped the early colonies of the Southwest which in many
ways have become a way of life in New Mexico and Colorado. Students will learn about land grants, the
geography of Colorado and the Southwest, and some of the legends. Lessons include a timeline to understand the
events that occurred and the study of historical fiction.
Resources:
The Corn Woman: Audio Stories and Legends of the Hispanic Southwest [S] [E/S] [cassette]
The Corn Woman: Stories and Legends of the Hispanic Southwest [E/S]
Encounter
It's Your Misfortune and None Of My Own: A New History of the American West
Maya's Children: The Story of La Llorona
Meet Josefina, An American Girl
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Study Guide for Among the Volcanoes by Omar S. Castañeda
Grade level: 6-8
Implementation time: 6-8 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: Mayan
Show Details...
Description: The traditions and practices of the Mayan people are studied through the fictional book Among the Volcanoes by
Omar S. Castañeda. The book depicts the dreams and hardships of Isabel Pacay, a teenage girl living in a small
village of Mayan people. Lessons incorporate compare and contrast activities, evaluating activities, interviewing
and oral presentations, and character analysis.
Resources:
Among the Volcanoes
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Study Guide for Walking Stars
Grade level: 6-9
Implementation time: 7 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican American, Mexican Indian
Show Details...
Description: Through Walking Stars by Victor Villasenor the Mexican Revolution in Mexico and a family’s immigration to the
United States comes to life with true life stories. The derring-do and self-discovery tales will provide students with
positive examples in overcoming adversity during times of duress. Lessons include compare and contrast
activities, drawing conclusions, map making, a time line, and expository writing.
Resources:
Course of Mexican History, The
Mexican American Heritage, The: with Writing Exercises
Walking Stars: Stories of Magic and Power
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Thanksgiving: An American Indian Celebration
Grade level: ECE
Implementation time: 4 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, art
Ethnicity addressed: American Indian
Show Details...
Description: Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to teach about American Indians in a respectful and authentic manner.
Students will learn the concept of thanking others, being thankful for the things they have, and the Thanksgiving
holiday. Lessons include art activities to learn about fruits and vegetables.
Resources:
Feeling Thankful
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message
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Three Latin American Folktales
Grade level: K-1
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, visual art, family history, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: Several Latin American folktales introduce readers to culture, history, heroes, and social events. Students will
learn how to create a story map mural, sequence books, and share their own family history and folktales. Lessons
include art projects to construct a weather vane, masks of characters, and cube temple.
Resources:
Dancing Turtle, The: A Folktale from Brazil
De Colores and other Latin-American Folk Songs for Children
Diego [E/S]
Llama's Secret, The: A Peruvian Legend
Los tres pequeños jabalíes/ The Three Little Javelinas [E/S]
Momentos mágicos/ Magic Moments [E/S]
Tales Alive: Ten Multicultural Folktales with Activities
Tatterhood and Other Tales: Stories of Magic and Adventure
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The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
Grade level: 7-12
Implementation time: 3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, geography, history, civics
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Manifest Destiny are introduced and explored. Students will learn of the
concepts of border/frontera and the role of various geographical locations during this era. Lessons include a
synopsis of the Mexican American war and an investigation into the political aspects of these historical events.
Resources:
La Tierra: Last Stand in Costilla County [video]
Mexican American Heritage, The: with Writing Exercises
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: A Legacy of Conflict
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Twin Hero Myths in Literature of the Americas
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 8 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, vocabulary
Ethnicity addressed: Mayan, American Indian
Show Details...
Description: The concept of pairs of heroes, which is referred to as twin heroes, have been reflected in myths for centuries.
Students will become familiar with Mayan civilization and culture as they read the ancient account of the creation
in the book The Popul Vuh. Students will learn about the three phases of a hero’s journey as they study the book
Where the Two Came to Their Father, a Navajo myth. Lessons incorporate the twin hero concept into modern
times with comic book characters, movies, and historical figures.
Resources:
Popol Vuh:The Mayan Book of the Dawn of Life
Where the Two Came to Their Father
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Viva Mexico! A Celebration of Diez y Seis de Septiembre: Mexican Independence Day
Grade level: K-2
Implementation time: 2 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, history, geography, mathematics, visual art, art
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican, Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The movement for Mexican independence began on September 16, 1810, in a parish with a speech by the priest
Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, in the small town of Dolores in the province of Guanajuato. Students will learn
about the independence days of Mexico and the United States and how they are celebrated. Family values are
incorporated into the lessons which include art projects to construct a Mexican flag and make paper banners.
Resources:
Arts and Crafts of Mexico
Family Pictures / Cuadros de familia [E/S]
Los Mariachis/ An Introduction to Mexican Mariachi Music [book/CD] [book/cassette]
Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo
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The Voice of a Latina Writer: Author Study on Sandra Cisneros
Grade level: 9-12
Implementation time: 6 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing
Ethnicity addressed: Mexican American
Show Details...
Description: The Hispanic/Latino culture is explored through the literary works of Sandra Cisneros: The House on Mango
Street, Woman Hollering Creek, My Wicked Ways. Students will explore the connections from literature to
personal life, develop schema, focus on literary analysis and use critical thinking skills through the writing of
expository and descriptive essays.
Resources:
House on Mango Street, The
Tactics for Thinking: Blackline Classroom Activities Middle and Secondary L
Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories
Woman Hollering Creek and the House on Mango Street [cassette]
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Weaving the Tapestry of Life: Exploring Guatemalan Culture through Traditional Clothing and
Designs
Grade level: 3-4
Implementation time: 2-3 weeks
Standards and content addressed: reading, writing, visual arts, geography, history, math
Ethnicity addressed: Latinos
Show Details...
Description: Welcome to Guatemala! Students will learn the importance of the weaving and clothing styles in Guatemala as
integral parts of both cultural identification and everyday society norms. Students will learn about the country and
the culture and various aspects of Guatemalan society. Supporting literature for this study is rich and opens the
door for insightful peeks into ancient Mayan customs and they are still carried forward today. Attention is called
to the craft of weaving and how weavers get ideas for new patterns. Hands-on activities and experiences are
delightful and extremely appropriate for this study.
Resources:
Abuela’s Weave by Omar S. Castaneda
People of Corn: A Mayan Story by Mary-Joan Gerson
A Family from Guatemala by Julia Waterlow
Guatemala Rainbow by Gianni Vecchiato
Guatemala in Pictures by Rita J. Markel
Guatemala by Elma Schemenauer
Mayan Weaving: A Living Tradition by Ann Stalcup
Out of the Dump: Writings and Photographs by Children from Guatemala by Kristine L. Franklin and Nancy McGirr
Culture and Customs of Guatemala by Maureen E. Shea
Guatemalan Textiles Today by Marilyn Anderson
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