Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create an ofrenda for Dia de los Muertos.
Materials and Prep
- Construction paper (various colors)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers or colored pencils
- Printouts of pictures of loved ones or celebrities
- Optional: Small toys or objects that represent the deceased
Before starting the lesson, make sure you have a clear understanding of what Dia de los Muertos is and the significance of ofrendas. You can research or ask your parents for more information.
Activities
Start by explaining the purpose of an ofrenda and its significance in celebrating Dia de los Muertos. Show examples or pictures of ofrendas to give an idea of what they look like.
Discuss the different elements that are commonly included in an ofrenda, such as pictures of loved ones, favorite foods, flowers, and personal belongings.
Have the student choose a loved one or a celebrity they admire to honor in their ofrenda. Encourage them to think about what items or symbols they would like to include to represent that person.
Using the construction paper, scissors, and glue, guide the student in creating their ofrenda. They can cut out shapes, decorate them, and arrange them on a larger piece of paper to resemble an altar.
Once the main structure of the ofrenda is complete, have the student add the pictures of their loved one or celebrity, along with any other objects they have chosen. They can also write a short description or a memory of that person.
Encourage the student to explain their ofrenda and share the significance of each item they have included.
Third Grade Talking Points
- "Dia de los Muertos is a special holiday celebrated in Mexico and other parts of the world."
- "People create ofrendas to remember and honor their loved ones who have passed away."
- "Ofrendas are like altars that have pictures, favorite foods, flowers, and other items that were special to the person being remembered."
- "You can choose a loved one or a famous person to honor in your ofrenda."
- "Think about what items or symbols would represent that person and include them in your ofrenda."
- "Use construction paper, scissors, glue, and your creativity to make your ofrenda look beautiful and meaningful."
- "When you're done, explain your ofrenda and share why each item is important."