Featured Sites Week of: Sep 27, 2026 - National Hispanic Heritage Month
Here are this week's features. Clicking the tags in the description area of each listing will present a list of other resources with this topic. | Click here to return to the Featured Sites Archive
Hispanic American/Latino American History - National Park Service
Grades
6 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Bring Hispanic and Latino American history to life with the National Park Service's "Hispanic American/Latino American History (Teaching with Historic Places)" portal, a vibrant collection...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Bring Hispanic and Latino American history to life with the National Park Service's "Hispanic American/Latino American History (Teaching with Historic Places)" portal, a vibrant collection of place-based educational tools designed to engage students in history, social studies, geography, and civics through real-world sites. Teachers will discover featured resources like Spanish Treasure Fleets, which explores Spain's New World empire and its quest for precious metals; Castolon - A Meeting Place of Two Cultures, a rich case study of Spanish and Anglo influence along the Rio Grande; and the Curiosity Kit on Nina Otero Warren, offering an in-depth look at the life of this suffragist and educator. More than just lesson plans, the site connects classroom learning to historic places on the National Register.
tag(s): cultures (301), hispanic (53), world war 2 (169)
In the Classroom
Have students locate and mark historic Latino heritage sites mentioned in the lessons (like Castolon or El Camino Real) on a digital map using Google My Maps, reviewed here or a printed map. Include brief annotations describing each site's historical significance. Assign students to investigate if their community has historic places tied to Hispanic or Latino history. They can write a short report or create a digital presentation using Genially, reviewed here proposing why it should be recognized or preserved. Have students research a local or historical Latino figure and design a mural that honors their impact. They should include a written statement to explain imagery and symbolism in their work.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Pacifico Dance Company: On Stage at the Kennedy Center - The Kennedy Center
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Kennedy Center multimedia feature introduces the Pacifico Dance Company, a Mexican Folklorico group celebrating regional dance traditions through vibrant performances and classroom...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This Kennedy Center multimedia feature introduces the Pacifico Dance Company, a Mexican Folklorico group celebrating regional dance traditions through vibrant performances and classroom explorations. It showcases a short documentary clip that highlights the dancers' costumes, choreography, and musical accompaniment while providing context on the company's cultural mission. Educators gain access to discussion prompts, guided viewing questions, and suggested activities designed to deepen student understanding of movement, identity, and cultural storytelling. These resources help students understand how dance shows the unique traditions of different regions in Mexico. They can also look at the meaning behind costumes and dance styles and try some of the movements themselves to connect with Mexican culture. The lesson includes videos, questions, and fun activities that support learning in both art and social studies. If your school district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): costumes (7), cultures (301), dance (41), hispanic (53)
In the Classroom
Watch the performance clip and discuss the costumes, music, and dance movements. Use the provided viewing questions to guide student observations and spark conversation about cultural expression. Students can label the map and add notes or images about the styles. Students can label a map of Mexico in Google My Maps, reviewed here and add notes or images about the styles. Using simple steps, music, and props (like scarves or ribbons), have students work in groups to choreograph and perform a short Folklorico-inspired dance that celebrates a tradition or value.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Five Artists of the Mexican Revolution - The Kennedy Center
Grades
9 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Discover the power of art to tell the story of a revolution in "Five Artists of the Mexican Revolution," a Kennedy Center visual arts lesson that invites students to explore ...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Discover the power of art to tell the story of a revolution in "Five Artists of the Mexican Revolution," a Kennedy Center visual arts lesson that invites students to explore the history, politics, and cultural impact of the Mexican Revolution through the work of five influential early-20th-century Mexican artists. Students research the social and political context of the revolution and examine artists such as Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, and Jean Charlot. They build an understanding of key vocabularies, such as realism, nationalism, and anarchy, and analyze how each artist's style and subject matter reflect revolutionary ideals. The lesson concludes with a creative project in which students produce original artwork inspired by one of the featured artists, thereby fostering visual literacy, historical awareness, and personal expression. Included resources support research, vocabulary development, slide presentations, and reflective discussion.
In the Classroom
Students can work individually or in small groups to create an original piece of artwork inspired by one of the artists studied, incorporating themes from the Mexican Revolution and their own interpretations. After completing their artwork, have students write an artist statement explaining their stylistic choices, subject matter, and how their piece connects to the revolutionary themes and artists studied in the unit, and combine them into a Google Slides, reviewed here presentation. Facilitate a class discussion in which students analyze selected works by the five artists, focusing on how each artist's style communicates political messages or cultural identity.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hispanic Heritage Month - National Archives
Grades
3 to 6
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The National Archives' Hispanic Heritage Month page offers educators a rich collection of primary sources and historical records to celebrate and explore the contributions of Hispanic...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The National Archives' Hispanic Heritage Month page offers educators a rich collection of primary sources and historical records to celebrate and explore the contributions of Hispanic Americans. The site features documents, photographs, and exhibits highlighting influential figures such as Justice Sonia Sotomayor, labor leaders Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, and astronaut Ellen Ochoa. Educators can access materials on immigration, civil rights, and cultural achievements, providing students with authentic insights into Hispanic and Latino experiences in U.S. history.
tag(s): civil rights (224), cultures (301), hispanic (53), immigrants (50)
In the Classroom
Introduce students to influential Hispanic Americans featured on the site (ex., Cesar Chavez, Sonia Sotomayor, Dolores Huerta). Read short biographical clues aloud while students guess who is described. Then, show a related photo or document from the Archives. Using images and brief descriptions from the site, students can create a timeline highlighting key moments and contributions of Hispanic Americans in U.S. history. Do this with chart paper, index cards, or a digital tool like Sutori, reviewed here or Timeline, reviewed here. Give students an age-appropriate primary source (photo, letter, or poster). In small groups, they can act as "document detectives" to answer guided questions about who created it, why, and what it tells us about Hispanic heritage.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hispanic Heritage Month for Kids - KidsKonnect
Grades
3 to 7
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This educational video from KidsKonnect provides an engaging overview of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting its origins, significance, and the rich contributions of Hispanic and...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This educational video from KidsKonnect provides an engaging overview of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting its origins, significance, and the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to U.S. culture and history. The video explains why the celebration runs from September 15 to October 15, ties it to Latin American independence days, and features notable figures like Sonia Sotomayor, Cesar Chavez, Rita Moreno, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is geared toward elementary and middle school learners. It also explores themes such as cultural identity, immigration, and community values, all while incorporating fun trivia--like a spotlight on Dora the Explorer as a cultural icon. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): cultures (301), famous people (40), hispanic (53)
In the Classroom
In small groups, students create a visual collage (paper or digital using PhotoCollage reviewed here) of Hispanic and Latino foods, music, holidays, and famous figures from the video. Students select a Hispanic or Latino figure from the video and, using an "I Am" poem format, write in that person's voice, sharing their background, dreams, and impact. Before watching, introduce 3-5 trivia questions based on the video (ex., "Which cartoon character teaches Spanish while adventuring?"). Students answer as they watch, then discuss in pairs or small groups afterward.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Influential Hispanic Americans - Biography.com
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Biography.com feature "24 Influential Hispanic Americans Who Have Made History" offers an engaging overview of prominent Hispanic figures whose achievements have significantly impacted...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Biography.com feature "24 Influential Hispanic Americans Who Have Made History" offers an engaging overview of prominent Hispanic figures whose achievements have significantly impacted American society. The article highlights individuals across various fields, including politics, arts, science, and activism. Notable figures include Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic American on the U.S. Supreme Court; labor leader Cesar Chavez, who co-founded the United Farm Workers; and EGOT-winning performer Rita Moreno. This resource serves as an excellent tool for educators aiming to introduce students to the diverse contributions of Hispanic Americans.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): famous people (40), hispanic (53)
In the Classroom
Create a list of fun facts (ex., "Find someone who won an Olympic medal" or "Find a person who was a Supreme Court Justice") and have students search the article to match each clue with the correct person. Choose two individuals from different fields, such as music vs. science, and have students complete a Venn diagram. The Venn diagram can be done on paper or online using Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here. Students write an imaginary interview with a historical figure from the article. Have students create a list of five thoughtful questions and what the person might say in response.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
6 National Hispanic Heritage Month Activities for Students - Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Check out this curated collection of engaging activities designed to honor and explore Hispanic Americans' contributions and culture. Find a variety of lesson ideas suitable for different...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Check out this curated collection of engaging activities designed to honor and explore Hispanic Americans' contributions and culture. Find a variety of lesson ideas suitable for different grade levels, such as student-led research projects on influential Hispanic figures, cultural celebrations featuring traditional music and dance, and creative writing assignments inspired by Hispanic literature. These activities aim to foster cultural awareness and appreciation, providing teachers with practical tools to integrate Hispanic Heritage Month into their curriculum effectively.
tag(s): art history (110), creative writing (126), cultures (301), hispanic (53)
In the Classroom
Students can use MyLens, reviewed here to create a timeline of events leading up to the Grape Strike and boycott. Introduce students to traditional Hispanic music genres like salsa, mariachi, or reggaeton. Follow with a discussion or simple dance session to explore how music reflects cultural identity. Read a poem or story by a Hispanic author (e.g., Gary Soto or Sandra Cisneros), then have students write a short piece inspired by the themes, style, or setting of the work.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
The Latin Rhythms of Despacito - Teach Rock
Grades
4 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Latin Rhythms of Despacito lesson plan from TeachRock introduces students to four Latin American music styles- Reggaeton, Musica Jibara, Cumbia, and Salsa- and examines their...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Latin Rhythms of Despacito lesson plan from TeachRock introduces students to four Latin American music styles- Reggaeton, Musica Jibara, Cumbia, and Salsa- and examines their influence on Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee's hit song "Despacito." Through video content and musical analysis activities, students learn how producers Mauricio Rengifo and Andres Torres incorporated elements from these genres into the track. This lesson encourages students to identify and discuss the integration of these musical styles within "Despacito" and to explore the broader impact of Latin American music on popular culture.
tag(s): hispanic (53), music theory (49), rhythm (22)
In the Classroom
Play short clips of Reggaeton, Musica Jibara, Cumbia, and Salsa to introduce students to the rhythms discussed in the lesson. Ask students to identify the unique rhythm patterns in each style and discuss how these rhythms are used in modern music. Divide the class into small groups, each assigned to one of the four Latin genres (Reggaeton, Musica Jibara, Cumbia, Salsa). Have groups create a playlist of songs that exemplify the genre and explain why these songs fit within the musical style. Introduce students to the dance styles associated with each genre (e.g., salsa dancing and Reggaeton movement). Discuss how music and dance are culturally interconnected and how they reflect the communities from which they originated. Have students listen to "Despacito" and analyze the lyrics for their cultural references, themes, and storytelling techniques. Students could compare the lyrics of "Despacito" to another popular song, discussing similarities and differences in themes, cultural references, and music styles. Compare lyrics using a tool such as ClassTools Interactive Venn Diagrams, reviewed here. You can click on the right side to choose between a two or three-circle Venn diagram.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hispanic Heritage Month - National Education Association
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The NEA's Hispanic Heritage Month page offers valuable tools and tips for educators to celebrate and integrate Hispanic culture into their classrooms. It includes a variety of lesson...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The NEA's Hispanic Heritage Month page offers valuable tools and tips for educators to celebrate and integrate Hispanic culture into their classrooms. It includes a variety of lesson plans, activities, and resources designed to engage students and foster an appreciation of Hispanic contributions to history, culture, and society. The site covers different grade levels and subjects, ensuring educators have many options. Additionally, it provides guidance on using culturally responsive teaching strategies to support student engagement and create an inclusive learning environment. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): central america (26), cross cultural understanding (175), cultures (301), dance (41), hispanic (53), south america (79)
In the Classroom
Have students select a country from the Hispanic world and research its culture, traditions, and famous figures. They can create a presentation or a digital poster to share with the class, allowing students to explore diverse aspects of Hispanic heritage using a platform such as Canva, reviewed here. Using a large map of Latin America and Spain, have students pin locations based on historical events or contributions of notable Hispanic individuals discussed in class, using a resource such as Google My Maps, reviewed here. Invite a guest speaker from the local Hispanic community or arrange a virtual field trip to a Hispanic cultural center or museum. Introduce students to traditional Hispanic music and dance styles such as salsa, flamenco, and mariachi.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
National Museum of the American Latino - Smithsonian
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Smithsonian Latino Center website offers rich educational resources focused on Latino history, art, and culture. Explore the exhibits, virtual tours, and multimedia content that...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Smithsonian Latino Center website offers rich educational resources focused on Latino history, art, and culture. Explore the exhibits, virtual tours, and multimedia content that highlight the diverse contributions of Latino communities to the United States. The site provides access to digital collections, lesson plans, and videos aligned with subjects such as history, social studies, and art. Engaging tools like the Smithsonian Learning Lab allow educators to create interactive learning experiences. This site is invaluable for integrating Latino culture and history into the classroom, promoting inclusivity and multicultural understanding. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): art history (110), cultures (301), hispanic (53), virtual field trips (153)
In the Classroom
Using the Smithsonian Latino Center's digital collections, have students choose a cultural artifact. Examples could be a piece of art, clothing, or an important document. Have students explore the virtual exhibits and collections from the Smithsonian Latino Center. Afterward, they can create a digital or physical gallery walk, selecting their favorite pieces or artifacts and writing brief descriptions. Host a classroom or school-wide event where students explore various aspects of Latino culture, from music and dance to food and traditions. Students can collaborate to create a short performance or video that encapsulates what they've learned or invite local Latino artists or community members to share their experiences.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hispanic Heritage Month Art Lesson Ideas - Art With Trista
Grades
5 to 12
0 Favorites
1 Comments
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring the artwork of eleven famous Hispanic artists, both past and present. The page includes a short introduction to each artist, their artistic...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring the artwork of eleven famous Hispanic artists, both past and present. The page includes a short introduction to each artist, their artistic style, and suggestions for student projects. Scroll down the page to find a link to download a free set of four Hispanic Heritage Month posters after signing up for a free newsletter.
tag(s): artists (106), central america (26), cross cultural understanding (175), hispanic (53), mexico (68), picasso (4), posters (46), south america (79)
In the Classroom
Although some of the artist summaries include links to purchase lessons, the information on this site provides an excellent starting point for learning about Hispanic artists and suggestions for student art projects. Use Figjam, reviewed here to create a collaborative presentation for students to explore the works of the artists mentioned on this site and others. Include links to videos and articles that provide biographical information on the artists and tell more of their stories. Extend learning by asking students to select an artist and create a work in their style. Share student projects throughout Hispanic Heritage Month to learn more about each artist and the different types of art they represent.Comments
Thank you for these ideas! I am an elementary school teacher, and we are celebrating HHM this week. I love the idea of introducing Hispanic artist to students through their style of art.Karla, GA, Grades: 3 - 5
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hispanic Heritage Month - Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Smithsonian Museum shares this website explaining the history behind Hispanic Heritage Month and provides numerous resources for learning more about Latino American experiences....more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Smithsonian Museum shares this website explaining the history behind Hispanic Heritage Month and provides numerous resources for learning more about Latino American experiences. Visit the different areas of the site to learn about Latino culture, Independence Days, food, art, and famous Latinos; another portion of the site shares educational resources, including teaching and learning resources.
tag(s): artists (106), central america (26), cross cultural understanding (175), dance (41), hispanic (53), south america (79), women (193)
In the Classroom
Include this site with other resources you use to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Find additional ideas at the TeachersFirst Special Topics Page: Hispanic Americans' Contributions to American Culture, reviewed here. As students learn about Hispanic countries, use MapHub, reviewed here to create interactive maps with photos of important locations. Take students on a virtual visit using Google Arts and Culture, reviewed here to learn more about Hispanic locations, culture, and significant members of the Hispanic community using "Hispanic" as a keyword search.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Reading Treks: The Distance Between Us - TeachersFirst
Grades
5 to 9
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Embark on a virtual field trip to follow the journey of Reyna Grande, an undocumented Mexican teen, as she tries to find her identity as both a Mexican and an ...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Embark on a virtual field trip to follow the journey of Reyna Grande, an undocumented Mexican teen, as she tries to find her identity as both a Mexican and an American. This Reading Trek provides a robust set of learning activities and extension resources to engage learners in exploring this book through a virtual journey using Google Maps. Use our robust Instructional Guide with students in grades 5-9. Content correlates to Common Core Standards, ISTE Student Standards, National Core Arts Standards for Visual Arts, and National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. Find the entire collection of Reading Treks here.
tag(s): hispanic (53), identity (48), immigrants (50), mexico (68), Reading Treks (56)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of the many suggested classroom uses for this resource found on the Instructional Guide (PDF). After reading this book and completing the activities found in the Reading Trek, ask students to document their identity using a tool like Odyssey, reviewed here. Use Odyssey to create a map-based story that includes images, text, videos, and photos. Find more ideas for teaching identity at this Discover My Identity Lesson Plan, reviewed here.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Reading Treks: Esperanza Rising - TeachersFirst
Grades
3 to 6
0 Favorites
0 Comments
TeachersFirst Reading Treks create a virtual field trip of resources about a piece of literature or text using the My Maps feature of Google Maps. This Reading Trek provides inspiration...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
TeachersFirst Reading Treks create a virtual field trip of resources about a piece of literature or text using the My Maps feature of Google Maps. This Reading Trek provides inspiration and suggestions for using the trade book, Esperanza Rising. Use our robust Instructional Guide with students in grades 3-6. Content correlates to Common Core Standards, National Core Arts Standards for Visual Arts, and National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. Find the entire selection of Reading Treks here.
tag(s): 1920s (26), 1930s (40), great depression (33), hispanic (53), immigrants (50), racism (83), Reading Treks (56)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of the many suggested classroom uses for this resource found on the Instructional Guide (PDF). This book and the suggested activities work well as part of lessons on racism and living conditions in the 1920s and 1930s on Mexican farms. Consider using the historical information and primary sources from the book to have students create timelines of the important events during the story. Find a variety of free online timeline creation tools located here. Use Google My Maps, reviewed here to create and share custom maps. As students conduct research related to life on Mexican farms during the 1920s and 1930s, use Fiskkit, reviewed here as a collaborative discussion tool. Use Fiskkit to share the link of any online article with students, then the site's tools provide the opportunity to highlight and add comments to areas within the article by users.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Close comment form