Day of the Dead

Introduction

Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a holiday celebrated by Mexicans and Mexican-Americans. The multi-day holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died, and help support their spiritual journey. Let's learn where this tradition came from and what it means to the Mexican people!

Task

Your task will be to learn about the origins, beliefs, traditions, and food associated with Day of the Dead. You will be placed into small groups where your task will be to research the websites listed and create a drawing or dramatic skit to teach the class about Day of the Dead. Group 1 will focus on origins, Group 2 will focus on beliefs, Group 3 will focus on traditions, and Group 4 will focus on food. Each group will be given a computer, chart paper, and markers. The websites you should use are listed on the Teacher Page. You will have 60 minutes to research and create a simple drawing/skit. We will present our artifacts during class tomorrow and discuss.

Process

1. The teacher will divide the class into 4 groups. The students will be assigned their specific topic.

2. The groups will be given a computer, chart paper, and markers. The paper and markers can be used for their drawing or taking notes.

3. The teacher will guide children to the list of websites they can/should use.

4. Students will work together to research their given aspect and create an artifact to present to the class.

5. Day 2, the students will present their work to the class.

6. The class will take notes on one another's presentations and we will discuss.

Evaluation

The students will work cooperatively in order to create a presentation. After each of the presentations, the students should have a better understanding of Day of the Dead and its importance to the Mexican people

Cooperation while working in a group	The group was respectful and cooperative all of the time.	The group was respectful and cooperative most of the time.	The group was respectful and cooperative some of the time.	The group was not respectful or cooperative.
Presentation	The group created a presentation that was easy to understand.	The group created a presentation that was somewhat clear and easy to understand.	The group created a presentation that was was not clear or easy to understand.	The group created a presentation that was incomplete.
Discussion	The discussion showed clear understanding of Day of the Dead.	The discussion showed proficient understanding of Day of the Dead.	The discussion showed apparent confusion about Day of the Dead.	There was little to no discussion.