Celebration of Mexicanos Through Music, Dance, and Art

Celebrations signify the good things in life. Above all else, they mean a day off from work and a time to spend with family and friends and connect with a culture. People have celebrated in many ways through dance, art, and music. Traditions are what keep a society of people together. This is a bond, which has been passed down through generations. Many people can recall a song sung by rote when you were a child, which in turn you may have taught to your children, who may one day pass it on to their children.

Mexicanos have used their rich history, from the beginning of the 16th century through present day, to help carry on those traditions. In the 16th century, the Europeans came to rule Mexico and Central America and brought with them their music and art. The music from Mexico has influenced the culture today. Latin music has evolved from the Europeans into a distinct sound. It is prevalent in the United States today, whether it is as pop music, R&B, or the traditional Latin sound.

This unit should be taught as an interdisciplinary unit of Social Studies and English and could be used to introduce students to holidays, celebrations, family, music, and food of the Latino culture. The unit is based on 30-minute classes that will meet three times a week and can be used in any primary grades, kindergarten through second grade. These lessons can be shortened or lengthened depending on the time available and the preparation of the teacher.

The lessons can be downloaded as a 42 page PDF from this site at the link below.

This unit is one of some three dozen web-based resources recommended by the Florida International University Latin American and Caribbean Center.

Download files for this resource:  CelebrationsofMexico


Keywords

Global Regions: Latin America

Countries: Mexico

Centers: Florida International University, Latin American and Caribbean Center

Recommended by: Florida International University, LACC

Length: 7 Lessons and 1 Unit Assessment

Year Produced: 2001

Material: 42-page PDF