The study of key figures in history is a common standard in elementary Social Studies. It is so important that we remember that American history was not made only by white men. Citizens with Hispanic heritage account for 20% of the population today.
Just like our country, we need our Social Studies lessons to include many races and cultures. For this reason, and many others, Hispanic Heritage Month activities are crucial to your Social Studies lesson plans in September.
A Personal Connection
Hispanic Heritage Month is special to me. You see, my grandmother came to America from Mexico in the 40’s. Her give name was Socorro Nieto. When she married, she changed her name to Mary Jones. She gave in to the “this is America, speak english!” movement.
I remember her cooking her delicious traditional dishes, but she would not speak Spanish to us. We did not celebrate Mexican holidays. Our branch of the family basically lost our culture. This is one story of what happens when we do not value all cultures. My grandma worked on NASA space ships. She helped men go to space. She deserved better.
A Time to Celebrate and Learn
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 each year. We honor the histories, customs, and cultures of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico, central and South America.
Teachers provide Hispanic Heritage activities in their Social Studies lessons during this month. Including primary resources, close readings, and projects brings the culture to life.
Hispanic Families as Living History
If you don’t have a Hispanic family in your class, then you surely have one in your school. Use them! Invite parents in to talk to your students and share photos and other memorabilia. Let students compare and contrast with their own family. When kids hear firsthand accounts of traditions, journeys, and family celebrations, history becomes real and personal
From Reading to Real Understanding
Leveled reading passages make it easier for every student to access the same rich content. Research shows that when students read texts that match their reading level, they build confidence and deepen comprehension.
During Hispanic Heritage Month, close readings about influential figures let students slow down. They can ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations.
Check out picture books from Hispanic authors:
Why Projects Make Learning Stick
When students gather and manipulate information in order to make presentations, they make deeper connections to the material. Engagement and critical thinking increase. This is why ending projects are so important.
Letting students know they will use the information in a creative way before reading or listening helps them store the concepts in short term memory. Projects also give students a sense of ownership and pride. they get to show what they learned in a meaningful way.
I hope you got an idea or two. If you are short on time, and need a done-for-you resource for Hispanic Heritage Month, click on the cover on the left to check it out.
