Investigate the following links to find out more about the customs of Cinco de Mayo. It describes the political and military conflict between the Mexicans and the French, as well as the circumstances that led up to the battle of Puebla. A student-created explanation of the origin of Cinco de Mayo, by students in New Mexico, offers a different approach to this holiday's history. More celebration information is available at the site maintained by Mexico Online . Try adding them to your in-class celebration.
Food is a great complement to cultural studies.
Here's an illustrated site with a materials list and directions on how to make a pinata for your Mexican celebration. If you work with primary students, try these songs, each set to the melody for a popular nursery rhyme. If you have the time, this could be a great one for elementary students. Social Studies, Art, Language Arts and Music - Students will learn about the history of Cinco de Mayo and the Hispanic culture on this webquest. In groups of four, they work through seven different activities involving web research.