Once they have completed these three steps, students will move forward with strong research skills, creative design experience and public speaking capabilities. Ms. Webb Thomas provided a diverse selection of figures of Hispanic heritage for students to choose from, ranging from historic figures such as Cesar Chavez and Pancho Villa to modern icons including Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and soccer star Lionel Messi. The 6th graders continue to pour over their work with excitement and careful consideration as they find ways to best represent their chosen individual.
A sixth grade student researches Sandra Cisneros.
An Exploration of Diversity During Hispanic Heritage Month
It’s
not every day that students of Lathrop Elementary are learning about the iconic fruit headpiece worn by Carmen Miranda. But in the 6th grade classroom of Ms. Webb Thomas, students are embarking on an in-depth exploration of famous Hispanic figures to celebrate diversity during Hispanic Heritage Month. The four-week celebration, honored from September 15 – October 15, recognizes the contributions and influence
of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Hispanic heritage includes all Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Under the guidance of their teacher, these 6th graders are completing a project that not only celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, but also helps them master grade level standards. The project has three parts:
First, the student selects a famous American figure of Hispanic heritage and researches them. After learning how to conduct educational research on a person or topic (a grade level requirement), the student designs a pennant flag representing their figure to provide a visual for display in the classroom. In the final part of the project, Ms. Webb Thomas will have her students present their figures to the class, creating an opportunity for students to master yet another 6th grade requirement – public speaking.
For Ms. Webb Thomas, the project, which encourages students to put themselves into the shoes of another and recognize achievements of those with different backgrounds, is centered on the celebration of diversity – not only in history, but in the classroom as well. Ms. Webb Thomas stated, “As a teacher it is important for me to make learning fun and meaningful for my students. This Hispanic heritage project helps my students achieve grade level standards by allowing them to practice their informational writing skills, including research techniques and proper syntax, while also being a fun and engaging activity. Overall, the project’s aim is to highlight the contributions of the various people and cultures which make up American history.”
Hispanic leaders students chose to research.
Students refining their research skills!
“Overall, the project’s aim is to highlight the contributions of the various people and cultures which make up American history.”
Frida Kahlo
Selena Quintanilla Roberto Clemente
Lionel Messi
Cesar Chavez
