When it comes to having a fiesta in the classroom to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, things can get out of hand unless the proper precautions and plans are made. So read forth, Senora o Senor, and make your classroom the hot spot under the Mexican sun.

1.) Make a list. Divide the classroom up in three sections: One for snacks and appetizers, one for entrees, and one for desserts. Have a list for each group of students in which they can write down what they plan on bringing. It is imperative that you give them AT LEAST a week to think about this task. This will give them time to go home and talk to the parents about what things are available in their homes to cook up a delicious treat to bring to school for Cinco de Mayo. Next you will want to make sure that there are no duplicate food items.

2.) Once everyone has made their choice of what they will be making, discuss their choice individually at least three days prior to Cinco de Mayo. Make sure that they know how much they should make so that there will be enough to go around the classroom. You can also have the students research the significance of their food item in Mexico if there is any.

3.) When the big day arrives, make sure that sufficient space has been made. Move the desks to the sides of the room and place the food items wherever they fit, all the courses in their own section.

4.) It's chow time! Have each student form a line and move through the classroom scooping up what they would like to try. You should keep an eye on how much each child takes so that there is enough for everyone.

5.) Once everyone is finished, hold a class discussion about which foods they liked, which ones they didn't, which ones were hard to make, and so on. If there is any interesting information the students found on their food item, have them discuss it.

Once the day is finished, students will be sure to have a greater appreciation for Mexico and especially their culinary talents.

Learn more about this author, Kelly A. Mello.
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