Friday, January 14, 2011

Países

We are learning about different countries in 4th and 5th grades classes. The content is read and processed in Spanish. I have also showed short videos to accompany and to make it easier to visualize what it would be to visit that country. One 5th grade class chose Paraguay. Click here to watch a very inspiring video about how a group is transforming Paraguay's society through education.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

El Sistema Solar

Ever since I was a child I have been fascinated by two things: the sky and rocks. I collect minerals, fossils and rocks for a hobby. When I go to new places I always come loaded with rocks, they are everywhere: my bags, my pockets, my shelves, my drawers... I also love astronomy and I especially love teaching it in Spanish to our third graders: I challenge you to this pre-assessment I created!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

More science on acquiring new language

I am still a language learner, whether it is keeping my French and German, learning new things in English or my latest adventure (Mandarin!) I am always learning language. Spanish is my native language, I started French at the age of 5 and German and English at 22. I am at a disadvantage in Mandarin... Or may be learning French at such an early age gave me an advantage for life and made me a "mental juggler"... Read this article.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Day of the Dead

We are currently learning about the Mexican celebration of the Day of Dead. If you want to know more about it click and watch the videos on your right. The National Museum of Mexican Art has an exhibit on the Day of the Dead that runs till December 13th. For more information click here.
Also: the Chicago Children's Museum is currently presenting a special exhibit through March 13, 2011: "Mexico: festival of toys". For information click here.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Hispanic Heritage Month: September 15-October 15

During this Month we celebrate the accomplishments of Hispanics in the United States. A Hispanic or Latino is a person who came, or whose family came, from a Spanish speaking country. Lynn Allen, Director of the Multicultural Center located at Julian Middle School came to Beye School to talk to the students about the cultures of several Spanish speaking countries. On your right you can see some pictures of her visit. The students listened very attentively and had a lot of questions!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Happy Mexican Independence Day!!

İViva Mexico!
We commemorated the 200 anniversary of the Mexican declaration of Independence. Here is a brief history lesson: