Mexican printer Jose Guadalupe Posada's (1851-1913) numerous prints of "calaveras" gave vast popularity to skeleton figures through his satirical and politically critical renditions of skeletons engaged in daily activities. They are oftentimes represented in festive and playful posturing. Calaveras have now become the most original trait…

This brief article describes the history, traditions, and food of the Mexican holiday known as Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Day, and explores classroom and studio activities that teachers can do with their students. Teachers are urged to encourage students to explore the topic of the Day of the Dead, comparing it to other traditions and…

Directions for making and coloring nine paper dolls representing various regions of Mexico are given. These dolls represent the regions of Oaxaca, Veracruz, Hildalgo, Yucatan, Potosina, Puebla, and Chiapas. Each doll is dressed in the traditional costume of the region. (NQ)

This two-part curriculum unit includes 20 slides depicting Days of the Dead in Mexico and the United States. The unit is designed to help middle school students compare customs and practices associated with death throughout the world in a way that promotes understanding of the values and needs that produce and are reinforced by death rituals and…

A milagro is a little metal pendant that symbolizes a request, a prayer, or a wish. This "Teacher's Guide" and bilingual "Student Booklet" accompany a bilingual videotape and color wall poster in a multimedia package intended to introduce students in grades 3-8 to the folk art tradition of milagros. The videotape, presented…

This resource guide, designed for elementary level students, presents activities focusing on the language and customs of Mexico. The material is organized in 12 chapters that correspond with the curriculum calendar. Whenever possible, the thematic topic presented in each chapter refers to calendar appropriate festivals or events. Following an…