Last Updated on November 4, 2024
There is no better time to celebrate the culture and accomplishments of Latino and Hispanic communities than National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15).
As you approach making lesson plans to celebrate this month, we have a couple of points we recommend keeping in mind:
- The “Hispanic” label is not one that all your students may feel comfortable identifying with. Consider opening up the conversation to the class and hear from them about how they identify and what resonates with them. Some examples may include Latino/a, Latinx, Latine, Afro-Latino/a, Chicano/a, Spanish, etc.
- Hispanic culture is not a monolith. If there are Hispanic or Latino students in your class, do not put them in a position of speaking for all Hispanics or being the authority on all aspects of their culture or history.
- All nationalities and cultures experience struggles and celebrate achievements. It is important to present a balance of challenges and positive accomplishments.
Listenwise Collections about Latino & Hispanic American Stories:
Latino & Hispanic American Stories Collection (Middle School)
This collection focuses on the culture, perspectives, and identity of the Latino/Hispanic community in the U.S. The stories capture cultural traditions such as quinceañeras, accomplishments like contributing to the Mars rover, and efforts to challenge assumptions.
Latino & Hispanic American Stories Collection (High School)
This collection is about Latinos and Hispanic Americans, groups representing a growing portion of the U.S. population. The stories highlight the voices of Hispanic people, including immigrants and long-time citizens, and provide a deeper understanding of their diverse community and its experiences.
Listenwise Podcasts about Latino and Hispanic Experiences:
Current Events:
- Field Trips to Study Mexican-American History (also available in ELD)
- Teens Reflect on Race in America
- Preserving Latino Landmarks
- The Many Meaning of “Hispanic”
- Reconsidering the “Hispanic” Label
- Latina Engineer’s Work on Mars Rover
Media Representation:
- “Baldo” Comic Strip Features Latino Voices (also available in ELD)
- Connecting Through Art at the Border (also available in ELD)
- Mexican-American Comic Book Hero Saves Lives
- “The Education of Margot Sanchez”
- Big Papi Tells His Baseball Story
Challenges for Children:
- Impact of Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric on Hispanic Kids
- Crossing the Southern Border for College
- California Teen Lives Between Borders
- American Children, Immigrant Parents
- Sisters on the Immigration Divide
