Module Overview and Objectives

This module is based on information gathered during my study in Mexico through the Fulbright Hayes workshop sponsored by the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Department of Education.

This module is written for use in a teacher led activity, not an individual student activity. The module should be followed in the order suggested in the student section because each module builds upon the previous concepts and vocabulary.

This module discusses extracurricular and elective courses in the Mexican school system. Students are provided a variety and number of exercises that delve into the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This module was written for use with the chapters three and four of the textbook titled ¡Ven Conmigo!, but could be adapted to any textbook. The unit is divided into four major sections:

1. general information about the Mexican educational system
2. extracurricular activities

a. sports
b. fine arts
c. celebrations

In addition, there are three minor sections that discuss electives (Kissin' Cousins)and unusual facts about yearbooks (Bizarre) and clubs (Bizarre).

In general, the major sections are further divided into the following sections: brainstorming, specialized vocabulary, general information, and interviews. Each section presents activities and check tests. Each teacher is encouraged to adapt, modify, and add to the unit as needed for his/her own needs in the classroom.

The objectives of the subsections are as follows:

Brainstorming: Students will begin thinking about the proposed topic before reading the general information sections which should lead to identification with and more interest in the topic during discussion. Students will have seriously considered the American view of the topic and will be more prepared for comparison/contrast activities in other sections.

Specialized Vocabulary: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the key vocabulary concepts by using them in the different activities in the vocabulary section.

General information: Students will read about the topic, then demonstrate their understanding by completing various activities. Some of the activities allow students to practice simple concepts (such as making nouns plural, adjective agreement, etc.) already learned in the text, but focusing on concepts
and vocabulary related to the topic at hand. All activities, including writing, are designed to practice the target language. Keep in mind the level that your students are working at. With the ¡Ven Conmigo! text, it's better to tie this website in at chapters three and four since that is when the text focuses on Mexico.

Interviews: Students will demonstrate listening comprehension in this section. The interviews should be high interest because each is accompanied with a picture of the Mexican student who is talking.

Note: The three minor sections don't follow the same pattern as above. They are meant to be high interest and brief. However, two do have short activities to complete. I would further recommend that you conduct a survey of electives with the Tallere section and conduct an opinion line on the Memorias section.