On the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca, runaway slaves built their own communities and joined other indigenous groups, forging a culture that persists into the present.

Learning Objective

Students will learn about the customs of the indigenous people in the Oaxaca area of Mexico.

Social Studies Standards

Culture: C, D

Discussion Prompts

• What is the primary function of the mangrove and why is this important to the area?
• Describe the customs of the bride and groom in a traditional wedding that takes place in this area. What aspects are similar and different from wedding ceremonies in your area?
• What training and skills would you need to be an Oaxacan weaver? What aspects of the job would you excel in and what aspects would be challenging?
• Masks, gourds, and instruments reflect the Oaxacan traditions. Discuss what they personify and symbolize. Share your favorites from the video.

Lesson Activities

• Write a poem, story, or myth that highlights the setting of the mangrove reserve in the Oaxaca National Park. Include the heron, egret, fauna, and other natural features mentioned in the video.
• Research the science of sunflowers including the benefits of pollination and why sunflowers need bees. Create a collage representing both the scientific elements and symbolic elements of what a sunflower represents.
• Work with two partners to create at least three social media posts that include information about the sunflower festival, weddings, and ceremonial dances.
• You are an Oaxacan and you’re planning a vacation for your family. You need to pack for a week’s trip. Create a packing list that includes the clothing and accessories mentioned in the video and any additional needed items for the climate.

Vocabulary

• apparent
• arc
• barb
• intricacies
• mangroves
• myriad
• overbearing
• relic
• satire
• scorn

Download

In the Americas Season 11 Lesson Episode 4