This month all Spanish students will learn the history behind the celebration of the 5th of May. In 1862, during the same time as the Civil War in the United States, Mexico was in debt to France and France invaded Mexico with its army. Although France had an organized army, the spirit and dedication of the Mexicans enabled them to win the battle outside of the town of Puebla and turn the tide for the Mexicans. It took four additional years for the French to leave Mexico. Many people confuse this date with Mexico’s Independence Day. In Mexico and many places in the United States, this day is celebrated with parades, parties and lots of delicious Mexican food!
This month, first graders will write Spanish words in a booklet about Mexico and this holiday and learn about and color a Mexican flag. They will also learn about the instruments played in Mariachi Bands. Second graders will make paper tacos as place setting decorations for the Cinco de Mayo meal at the Fountains of Cedar Parke Nursing Home while learning about the holiday. Third graders will learn several Spanish clothing words while making a Mariachi! They will also learn about Mariachis and their instruments.
In May, first graders will be focusing on reviewing and reinforcing the vocabulary units we have covered this year, including greetings and questions, pets, shapes, numbers to ten, parts of the body, classroom supplies and objects. Second graders will focus on clothing, numbers to 20 and parts of the body and third graders will also use clothing and the body words as well as numbers to 100! (Only 9 new words!)