Teacher Talk- The importance of culture

Spanish is a beautiful language. Learning grammar, vocabulary, and phrases are very helpful and useful, however it is the culture that (in my opinion) helps students attain a lasting interest in the language. Latin America is full of different cultures, music, food, and history. As a Latin American and Caribbean Studies graduate and Spanish Teacher, I see how little students are exposed to the many things that make Latin America and the Caribbean beautiful. Even though Spanish is the main language that can connect you to the region, there are many different languages.

Indigenous cultures (Quechua, Aymara, Maya, Taíno, and Garífuna) continue to have a presence and inlfluence local traditions, festivals, languages, and social practices. Languages such as Spanish and Portuguese are two of many languages spoken in Latin America and brought by the Europeans, continue to blend with traditions from Africa.  The cultural vibrancy of the region has created music genres such as salsa, reggae, cumbia, samba, and calypso, and in the rich culinary traditions that vary from country to country.

Linguistically, the region is equally diverse. Spanish and Portuguese are just two of the languages spoken.   Indigenous languages, English, French, Dutch, and various creole languages are spoke in various regions. For example, Haiti speaks Haitian Creole and French, while Suriname uses Dutch and Sranan Tongo. Multilingualism is common! 

Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities continue to preserve ancestral languages.

In recent years, many countries have taken steps to recognize Indigenous and Afro-descendant contributions by promoting bilingual education, protecting cultural heritage, and addressing historical inequalities. From street art to literature, the diversity of Latin America and the Caribbean continues to inspire voices that celebrate both individuality and collective identity.

If you want your students to learn more about different cultures that have continued to shape Latin America and the Caribbean, go to https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/dual-dialects

We will continue to explore!