Dear 1st through 4th grade parents,
                    We did a short cultural activity about The Day of the Dead, El Dia de los Muertos.  this celebration is celebrated in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries.  Students were told the significance of the celebration and were asked to compare it to North American celebrations.  I pointed out that it has nothing to do with Halloween.  Each child decorated an ofrenda, an altar which people set up in their homes to honor their loved ones who have died.
I also discussed other ways people celebrate the day. Knowledge of the culture of Spanish-speaking people is an objective identified by the Mississippi State Department of Education.
Next week we will talk more about the celebration as well as begin a new unit in our study of Spanish. More information will follow about the new unit.
 K-4 and 5 learned a new song, Calabaza, Calabaza.  Calabaza means pumpkin.  We also practiced a conversation about foods we like and don't like.  Children are going to participate in a make-believe meal using paper plates and utensils next week to simulate eating at a table where people speak only Spanish.  I can't wait.  They will learn how to say about ten new words related to eating dinner.  This activity is called authentic learning, but I am thinking that some children are going to ask me where the real food is! 
Thank you for your cooperation and interest in our foreign language program at St. John's.
                                                 Atentamente,
                                                       Srta. Linda