As a hands-on assignment, Dayton’s Spanish II class recently constructed piñatas to celebrate the culture they have been learning about. Piñatas, which have been passed through different civilizations throughout history, are a staple for Spanish festivities. Traditionally, piñatas are used as symbols of celebration, although they used to be associated more with religious events. No matter the purpose, piñatas are bright and festive creative outlets meant for bringing people together. Judging by the smiles on the Spanish class’s faces, the piñatas do just that!
These colorful containers are made in various different ways. Sometimes they are clay, cloth, and most famously paper-mache, which is what the Spanish class opted for. Mrs. Warren’s class blew up balloons, and then covered them with newspaper and glue. Then, they added colored paper onto the newspaper ball, and popped the balloon inside, leaving a hollow paper shell. This immersive activity was the perfect way for this class to learn more about the culture behind Spanish.
Along with making these piñatas, the class also read Mata La Piñata, which is a fictional book written essentially about a young teenager who is embarrassed to have a piñata at his birthday party. This was yet another great way to learn about Spanish culture; through the eyes of someone around their own age.
All together, this assignment seems like such a perfect way to immerse oneself in what they’re learning about. If you too would like to try this craft, please do so, and let us know how it goes! Design your own piñata, and appreciate the culture behind it!
Skylar McCann ~ DO Correspondent
*Skylar is a member of Dayton High School's Sophomore class and writes regularly as our District Office Correspondent