As Spanish Language teachers, we’re always searching for meaningful ways to engage our students with the texts we study. Why not celebrate Thanksgiving with a project that combines gratitude, creativity, and literature analysis? This year, I introduced a Thank-You Card Project, and it was such a hit that I had to share it with you!
What’s the Project About?
Students create a thank-you card in Spanish addressed to an author or character from any work we’ve studied. The card must include:
- Five thank-you messages, each with at least four well-written sentences.
- A thoughtful connection to the work or character, demonstrating deeper literary analysis.
- Bright, vibrant decorations that visually represent the text or poem they’re thanking.
The entire project is completed in one class period and submitted by the end of class.
Why This Project Works
1. Reinforces Literary Understanding
Students reflect on the themes, characters, and messages of the texts in a personal and meaningful way. Instead of summarizing or analyzing for a test, they write from the heart, showing how literature has impacted them.
2. Encourages Creativity
Incorporating art and design allows students to step out of their academic comfort zones. It’s amazing to see how they use colors, illustrations, and symbolism to represent works like Soneto XXIII or El Burlador de Sevilla.
3. Builds a Sense of Gratitude
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to pause and reflect. This project reminds students to appreciate the lessons and emotions they’ve experienced through literature—and how it connects to their own lives.
4. Boosts Engagement
Let’s face it: AP Spanish Literature can feel daunting at times. This project breaks the routine and gets students excited to share their work. The vibrant decorations and creative interpretations make the classroom come alive.
FIND A COPY OF THE PROJECT HERE
DIEGO OJEDA 