This curriculum guide is intended: (1) to expose students to the people and customs of Michoacan, Mexico; (2) to explore the meaning of traditional Day of the Dead customs through hands-on experiences; and (3) to build the self-esteem of second language learners of Mexican descent. During the study, students whose primary language is Spanish read and respond to Purepecha Indian myths of Michoacan; research and prepare a presentation on the language and customs of the Purepecha Indians; and participate in Day of the Dead activities including art, theater, and cooking. Activities include a literature study, research project, and holiday celebration of the Day of the Dead. There are background notes on the Purepecha Indians and the Day of the Dead, along with a list of resources. Since much of this unit is activity-based, the evaluation of students is performance-based with students judged on their participation in and completion of the activities introduced. (EH)