After discussing Old Snake, students could draw or make their own snakes and write on the back one of their fears or self-doubts. Among the many responses possible after a discussion of student s personal dreams, they can make and then release kites on which they ve written their dreams. Students can study how plants and animals conserve water in the desert. Enjoy storytelling baskets created by the children with items brought from home. Students could also bring a favorite book to share.
Students can create memory gift baskets for a family member or friend.
Counting skills and games can be part of the basket activities. Students could then make cascarones, dry egg shells filled with confetti. Strive to help them see that though cultural expressions include food, folklore, fashion and festival, cultures are complex and reflect a group s values, geography, history and knowledge. After a field trip to a neighborhood bakery, for example, students could learn about bread-making traditions and the connections between food and culture. Using an array of children s toys from around the world, let children discuss differences and similarities.