Our students learn several prayers in Spanish, including the Glory Be, Our Father and Hail Mary. Later in the year we will participate in a multi-language prayer of the Rosary with all of the languages represented at All Saints.
Today my fifth graders chose Spanish-speaking countries and gave brief presentations that included introducing themselves in Spanish, telling which country they chose, and the name of the patron saint of that country as well as some details about the lives of the saints. Each chapter has a cultural segment that gives us many opportunities to discuss Catholic social teachings, particularly our call to family, community and participation, and solidarity.
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| Awesome 5th Graders |
Sometimes, to our surprise, the structure of the language itself shows us little ways to be mindful of truth. In my middle school classes, we have been reviewing saber, conocer and the personal a. The personal a is a concept that doesn't exist in English. However, in Spanish, whenever a person is the direct object of a sentence, we insert the personal a in front of any words that refer to that person as a reminder that there is something special about all human beings. The a is not used for places or things, only for people. In our Catholic social teachings we talk about the importance of life and dignity of the human person. Each of us is created in the image of God, and Spanish gives us a tiny reminder of that with the personal a.
I am so grateful to be a part of a school that integrates faith and academics in thought-provoking and practical ways!
