Spanish Language and Culture

AP Annual Conference Submission

209 - One Country at a Time: Culture as a Vehicle for AP Spanish

Lead Presenter(s)

• SH

  Shannon Hill

  Teacher (AP Spanish and Culture)
  The John Cooper School

Most AP resources revolve around the six central themes. Let’s turn that structure inside out and look at Spanish speaking countries as a thematic vehicle. We begin with a detailed foundational look at Spain and Mexico. I address all content through the lens of country and culture. Each unit is a new country which organically draws 4 to 6 themes from that nation’s history and current issues. A focus on countries with major presence on the world stage offers topical flexibility and room for student interests. In addition to preparing for the AP exam, my goal is to produce culturally sensitive and globally competent students with a broad knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world. Students develop highly desirable “soft skills” such as critical thinking, problem solving, and interpersonal communication. Participants will brainstorm thematic activities based on a country of their choice to develop an outcome plan including 4-6 AP themes, with emphasis on integration of authentic sources.