The close of the semester is upon us, and if you are in the market for quick activities to highlight traditions throughout Latin America, the ones below will help you get a jumpstart!

One of my favorite activities is La maleta; the extended version is below (reading and activities). I share with students the ritual of packing a suitcase, and running around the block in hopes of a great travel year (I did this a few years ago with my cuñada). I have them write 3 places they’ll like to visit (half sheet of paper):

Me gustaría viajar a ________________.

Afterwards, we go to the second floor of my school, run around with our half sheets of paper or symbolic stand-in for our suitcases. This is so much fun! They love the movement, running, and connections. Now, if you are looking for more context and concrete activities, see the extended activity below.

Let’s travel next year with this vision-orienting resource “El ritual de la maleta.” I have participated in this tradition as well as brought it to my students. It’s on sale!

Navidad en Guinea Equatorial

Equatorial Guinea is a Spanish-speaking country in Africa. This resource will help your students connect with people on the other side of the world, in a very comprehensible fashion. They will learn about their traditions, food, and dances.

Click here for the activity

Click here for activity

Combine learning about Guinea Ecuatorial with reviewing basic expressions in Spanish with “Quién es el chico nuevo.”

This comic strip depicts a dynamic conversation between two boys, Jaime and Julio. Jaime, a bicultural student from Chicago, becomes intrigued by a new student at their school. The catalyst for their interaction is Julio’s eye-catching soccer jersey, prompting Jaime to initiate a conversation and ask questions. Through their shared love of sports, language, and school, the boys quickly establish a connection. Jaime gains valuable insights from Julio, who is originally from Equatorial Guinea, a Spanish-speaking country in Sub-Saharan Africa. Later on, the duo is joined by Lisa, a girl who challenges them in a game of soccer. Click here for more information on the level and language.

December 7th is “Día de las velitas/ La noche de las velitas in Colombia, and this resource prepares you and your class to learn about this amazing Winter tradition.

*Contributors Carlos Quintero (Barranquilla) and Sandra Prieto (Bogotá).