Thematic Planning: The Language of the Fan

Hola,

The first culturally thematic unit I ever created was based on the language of the fan. I remember how I struggled to come up with a theme. At first, I went with the regular ideas: traveling, food and clothing. As I wondered how to narrow down the theme, while seating in an extremely warm library in the middle of winter, I found myself taking the Spanish fan I always carry in my pocketbook and using it. It was my AHA moment! It was my cultural practice to carry this cultural product in case I needed it, because it was the cultural perspective I grew up in. 

Once I became a certified K-12 teacher and started working, I was able to teach using my thematic unit. This video was a warm-up activity to introduce the lesson. I purposely planned it for a Character Day activity so that I could dress in traditional Spanish attire. Today, so many years later, I know better not to perpetuate stereotypical images through my lessons. However, the method of including elements such as audiovisuals, humor, characterization and culturally authentic props, works every single time. 

For more information on this unit and resources go to: El Lenguaje del Abanico

Hasta luego,
Doctora Collado