Story Published:
Oct 29, 2011 at 7:15 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Oct 30, 2011 at 4:43 PM CDT
Kelley Bratcher, teacher of the new Spanish programs for the 6th to 8th graders at the Algood Middle School, is currently exploring a unit on "Día de los muertos (Day of the Dead)" in Spanish class.
According to Ms. Bratcher, this holiday is celebrated in Mexico on Nov. 1st-2nd and is similar to Halloween in the U.S. Bratcher's students have been studying about the history of this holiday and have created artwork and a traditional "altar" in celebration of this day as seen in the photos.
Ms. Bratcher indicated that since the Spanish program is relatively new to our 6th-8th grades, parents and the community are very interested in learning more about the unique opportunity their students have in taking Spanish classes at such a early age.
Regarding the nature of the holiday, Ms. Bratcher said, "It's not really a dreary holiday; it's more cheerful." She indicated the artwork around the room, called, "Papel Picado," was what her 6th graders had made and said that it represented how the Mexican culture celebrates these days.
She also said that the "marigolds" which are traditionally yellow, were made by the students using several different bright colors. The marigolds signify life.
Also on the table were candles, salt, and letters about the person who passed away. Soap and towels and other things the deceased may have liked in life were also included. There were even guitars and fishing poles. These are traditionally set up in a little display (altar) in a Mexican home.
Similar to Halloween, skeletons are used for decoration as are masks, but it's a much happier time--very similar to the southern version of "Decoration Day" at a cemetary. It is a time of remembrance and to honor those who are no longer with us.
While the students were sitting in place for the photo, Ms. Bratcher drilled them on some basic Spanish Grammar, both collectively and individually. They all scored top marks.
Photo:
Emily Thurmond, Vada Sells, Abby Cravens, Caroline McCarter, Diana Dockery, Isaiah Hawkins, Moriah Stump, Victoria Barnett,
Matthew Nicholson, Madeline Herndon, Jenny Isham, Nicole Sowell, Ciera Farris, Erin Dunn,
Kelley Bratcher, Hunter Vick, Dylan Sparks, James Strong, Ally Barker.
