Lesson Plan - I'm A Mariachi Singer

Watch a Video: My Story: Mateo Lopez

Discuss: Why does Mateo perform mariachi music?

Preview Words to Know

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know.

• culture
• heritage

Set a Purpose for Reading

Note the “As You Read” question. Have students think about why mariachi means so much to Mateo.

1. Why is mariachi important to Mateo and his family? Mariachi started in Mexico long ago, and it is one way that Mateo and his family keep their Mexican culture alive. Mateo’s grandfather played mariachi. Now Mateo and his sister do.

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2. What is a traje de charro? A traje de charro is a special suit worn by mariachi performers. It looks like clothes from Mexico’s past. The suit includes a jacket, vest, and pants with silver decorations.

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3. According to the sidebar on page 2, what is the goal of Hispanic Heritage Month? The goal of Hispanic Heritage Month is to honor the the traditions and ways of life of people whose ancestors can be traced back to Spanish-speaking countries.

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FEATURED SKILL: Research

Continue your Hispanic Heritage Month exploration by using the Skill Builder “Inspiring Life Stories” to have students research and write about an influential Hispanic American.

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