Copiague Middle School is celebrating Foreign Language Week by connecting with culture, music and language. Ms. Chavez’s eighth grade Spanish class explored how music unites cultures, languages and traditions. Students listened to songs from a variety of linguistic and cultural backgrounds, paying close attention to how each piece made them feel while identifying new vocabulary woven into the lyrics.

As students compared rhythms, messages and expressions across different languages, they discovered how deeply music can unite people regardless of where they come from.

Students in Ms. Boris’ seventh and eighth grade Spanish classes also took part in meaningful discussions about the importance of Foreign Language Week and the benefits of learning another language. Working in groups, students analyzed a variety of infographics about countries around the world, examining facts and cultural traditions unique to each place. After reviewing the information, each class compared the countries and responded to discussion questions about what they learned. The lesson encouraged students to reflect on how learning another language and gaining an understanding of different cultures can positively impact their lives and broaden their perspectives.