Dia de los Muertos
2 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thSocial Studies
Summary
With roots in ancient Mexico, Dia de los Muertos now combines multiple cultures in Mexico and the United States for celebration. This colorful three day event of costumes, food, and dance honors loved ones who have passed away.
Viewer safety
All agesEmotional themes
The holiday is about remembering people who have died. It is warm and colorful rather than sad, but preview if a student has had a recent loss.
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Discussion
Short explainer (2 min) from PBS LearningMedia's *All About the Holidays*.
- Who does Dia de los Muertos honor?
- What goes on an ofrenda, and why?
- Why is this holiday full of color, food, and music instead of sadness?
Quick work-a-long
Vocabulary: ofrenda, marigold, ancestor, remembrance.
Try it: Draw an ofrenda and label three items you would place on it to remember someone.