Exploring Central America Through Culture and Geography
A team of ESL/Bilingual teachers at William Ramsay Elementary School in Alexandria, Virginia engaged their students in a unit on Central America: Exploring Central America Through Culture and Geography. While some of them had taught using the resources from TeachingCentralAmerica.org in the past, for many, this was their first time. They shared:
[The site] provided a rich foundation for students to understand the region beyond just political borders. We began with a map analysis activity where students identified each country in Central America and discussed the geographic features that influence culture and migration. Using interactive digital maps and primary source images, students explored how the region’s mountains, rainforests, and coastlines shape daily life.
We then transitioned into a cultural deep dive, where students worked in small groups to research traditional foods, music, and festivals from countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Costa Rica. Each group created a multimedia presentation that included visuals, music samples, and short video clips, which they shared during our “Central America Culture Day.” The lesson encouraged students to make connections between geography and cultural expression, and many were surprised by the diversity within such a compact region.
The teachers decided to take the lesson beyond the classroom by collaborating with the world languages department to host a district-wide “Central America Week.”
This event featured student-led booths representing each country, with interactive stations where attendees could learn basic Spanish phrases, try traditional snacks like pupusas and tamales, and view student artwork inspired by Central American textiles and architecture.
We also invited guest speakers from local Central American communities to share personal stories and lead dance workshops. One highlight was a panel discussion on migration and identity, where students asked thoughtful questions about the challenges and resilience of Central American immigrants.
The week culminated in a community night that brought together families, educators, and students to celebrate the region’s rich heritage. The lesson from your site served as a springboard for this broader initiative, helping students engage deeply with the material and fostering a sense of global awareness and empathy.
The team of teachers who participated were Lismari Lugo August, Christa Knight, Lorraine Rios, Karen Shilling, Michelle Cullum, Regina Moore, Shaza Abbas, Kamae Sandgren, Peter Jones, and Caroline Doughty.