Perspectives On Cultural Identity Among Latinx Immigrants to the U.S. Presented Through Authentic Film, Music, and Literature

Nikki DiBuono

Synopsis

This is a series of three modules on Latinx immigration to the United States, to be taught in between proficiency-based Spanish I units required by New Castle County Vocational Technical School District. Although the content of these units will allow students to practice some ACTFL skills of Communication, Cultures, Connections, and Comparisons, the overarching goal is to help them understand the history of Latinx immigration, recognize the past and present factors that have pulled individuals to the U.S., develop an awareness of the personal and political issues surrounding immigration, and foster empathy toward individuals who have experienced/are experiencing the immigration process. These three modules - Mexican Immigration, Caribbean Immigration, and Voices of Immigration - will provide opportunities for individual, partner, small group, and whole class work through a myriad of blended learning tasks partnered with authentic film, literature, and music, culminating in an evidence-based trial, student-created poetry, a Socratic seminar, a FlipGrid video discussion board, a Gallery Walk, and an optional digital or live “Museo” with student-created exhibits. Finally, students will retake a survey they began the unit with and reflect on how their attitudes and perspectives have changed based on the knowledge they have acquired.