Inspired by the upcoming Presidential Election, Middle School Spanish Teacher Yolanda Martín designed a unique project, combining civics and the Spanish language, for her students in Classes 6 and 7.
“Crear una plataforma presidencial en Español,” (Create a Presidential platform in Spanish) Profe Martín instructed, noting that students should choose something that represents their own values and priorities. The goal, Profe Martín said, is for students to defend their ideas—similar to presidential candidates in a debate—using appropriate political vocabulary in Spanish and to pensar críticamente sobre temas cívicos (think critically about civic issues).
During their lessons, the students discussed facets of the election and presidency and learned new vocabulary, including presidente, elecciones, plataforma, debate and votar.
When asked “¿Qué es una plataforma presidencial?” the students concluded that it is a set of proposals or promises from the candidate, often addressing important issues for the country, and helps voters understand the candidate’s ideas.
Some of Class 6’s platform choices included education, improving schools and learning opportunities; healthcare, ensuring appropriate care for all; security, keeping people and communities safe; and the environment, protecting nature and combatting climate change. Class 7 students spoke about gun control, women's rights and LGBTQ+ protections.
Students were required to create a 3-5-minute presentation—all in Spanish!—with an accompanying poster. Within their platform, the girls were asked to describe temas principales (main topics), explicar cómo resolverán problemas (explain how they will solve problems) and provide a conclusion. In addition to “feeling more comfortable speaking Spanish,” this project helped students strengthen critical public speaking skills, specifically, presenting clearly and confidently and actively listening to various points of view.
To conclude this timely assignment, Profe Martín said, “I hope this helps you approach the election with a critical lens!”
