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When Aunt Lena Did The Rhumba

From Reading Rainbow · 1998

When Aunt Lena Did The Rhumba
28 minK1st2ndReading & Writing (ELA)Music
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Summary

A family reunion becomes unforgettable when Aunt Lena arrives and leads everyone in the rhumba. LeVar Burton explores Latin music and dance traditions and talks with families about the role of music in keeping cultural connections alive.

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All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Aunt Lena's rhumba transforms a quiet family reunion into a lively celebration.

  1. How does the family feel before Aunt Lena arrives? How does the mood change?
  2. What role does music and dance play in the family gathering?
  3. What music, dance, or tradition does your own family share at celebrations?
  4. Why do you think music can bring people together so quickly?

Quick work-a-long

Vocabulary: rhumba, Latin music, tradition, celebration, culture.

Try it: Ask an adult at home about a music or dance tradition in your family. Write two sentences describing it and draw a picture of it.