Learning and Fun Go Together in Middle School

Middle School Spanish students have been learning while having fun. 5th graders had a pajama day and movie night last Friday as an opportunity to connect and enjoy the chance to snuggle up and slow down as we start to approach winter. They delighted in treats as well as some hot chocolate as they explored the themes of Inside Out, a film that teaches us the power of understanding and honoring the role emotions play in our everyday lives. 6th Grade Spanish had the opportunity to watch and read two stories, La Llorona (kid version) and El gato cansado. They then selected their favorite story and created a board game designed to build connection and have fun while practicing key phrases and words from their stories. The designs for the games were inspired by story themes; one group went above and beyond and created their pieces as characters from the story. Everyone then got to play their own game as well as try out others. In 7th grade Spanish, students read a story about Ana, who travels to different Spanish-speaking countries in search of the perfect "agua fresca", or fresh juice drink. They then shared summaries and insights into their interpretation of their stories while being cheered on by their classmates and encouraged through signs saying "Let's go!".