Last Friday, sixth and seventh graders enrolled in Spanish classes kicked off learning about Hispanic Heritage Month with South Orangetown Middle School World Language teacher Adolfo Godinez!
Throughout the month-long celebration, students will learn about famous Hispanic figures and learn about their impact in their community and how they have changed the lives of people worldwide. Godinez began the lesson by playing songs from two different Spanish-speaking countries and had students vote which song they liked better. The class voted on the song they preferred and for the rest of the month, they will vote on a song each day to see which country has their favorite music in a “Hispanic Heritage Music Madness” bracket. Godinez then gave students two famous Hispanic figures to research and they had to fill out a biographical poster with what they learned about them.
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15-October 15 as many Latin American countries celebrate their national independence days on or near September 15. Throughout the month, students will learn about the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. “I think it is important for students learning Spanish to understand the importance of promoting multiculturalism and embracing diversity of all Spanish-speaking countries. This all ties in with the cultural aspect of all our units up until AP Spanish. My goal is to have students enjoy acquiring another language and be able to achieve success in the language,” said Godinez.
