Part of language learning is learning about various cultures and traditions. Our language learners can learn about various nationalities who also speak English and live in English speaking countries. September 15 to October 15th is Hispanic Heritage Month. During this month, have your language learners celebrate and learn about Latino culture, history, and traditions. Your students can learn about famous Latinos, read books about the culture, have web chats with prominent Hispanic figures, or connect with students who can introduce them to the culture. Below are resources to help your students learn more about Hispanic culture and history. For ideas on how to get guest speakers to help you teach your classes this year, check out our webinar recording, Inspire Learners with Guest Speakers and Mentors.
To learn more about integrating technology to support English language learners, attend our TESOL webinars.
Recommended Websites
- The Hispanic Heritage site offers various resources, such as fun facts, events, and history.
- Check out this interactive timeline of Hispanic Heritage, then have your learners create one with any of our recommended timeline creation tools.
- The Soy Yo music video is an ode to young Hispanic girls and a great conversation starter. Play the video with and without sound to discuss each scene.
- PBS has lesson plans based on Latino Americans, including videos and PDF student activities.
- Scholastic has a Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Guide for Teachers with lessons for pre-k to 8th grade.
- The Smithsonian offers resources on Hispanic Heritage month, including posters and lesson plans.
Websites and Activities for Pirate-Themed Lessons
- Students can create treasure maps with a map-making activity using grocery bags and invisible ink recipes.
- Create interactive maps with Thinglink and instructions here.
- Make pirate-themed comic strips with Friendstrip, Toondoo, and Makebeliefs Comix.
- Build pirate ships with materials like paper and styrofoam, and learn about buoyancy principles here.
- Explore pirate history with National Geographic’s pirate adventure.
- Find a variety of resources about pirate history, famous ships, and museums at The Pirate’s Realm.
For more resources and ideas, continue exploring educational themes that engage and inspire English language learners!
