Create an ofrenda for dia de los muertos / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create an ofrenda for Dia de los Muertos and understand its significance in Mexican culture.

Materials and Prep

  • Construction paper
  • Markers or crayons
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Printed pictures of loved ones or celebrities
  • Optional: Small objects or toys that represent the person being honored

Before starting the lesson, make sure you have a basic understanding of Dia de los Muertos and its traditions. You can do some research or ask an adult for help if needed.

Activities

  1. Begin by discussing the significance of Dia de los Muertos and the purpose of creating an ofrenda. Explain that it is a way to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

  2. Have the student choose a person they would like to honor and gather pictures or printouts of that person. If they don't have pictures, they can draw a picture or write the person's name on a piece of paper.

  3. Using the construction paper, markers or crayons, and scissors, help the student create a small altar or ofrenda. They can decorate it with colorful designs and symbols that represent the person being honored.

  4. Encourage the student to add the pictures or printouts to the ofrenda. They can also include any small objects or toys that remind them of the person being honored.

  5. Once the ofrenda is complete, have the student explain who they are honoring and why. Discuss the importance of remembering and celebrating the lives of those who have passed away.

Third Grade Talking Points

  • "Dia de los Muertos is a special holiday celebrated in Mexico and some other countries."
  • "People create ofrendas, which are like altars, to honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away."
  • "Ofrendas are decorated with colorful designs and symbols that have special meanings."
  • "We can add pictures or printouts of the people we want to honor to the ofrenda."
  • "We can also include small objects or toys that remind us of the person we are honoring."
  • "Creating an ofrenda helps us remember and celebrate the lives of those who have passed away."