In a delightful blend of cultural exploration and hands-on learning, Mrs. Shopinski's German and Spanish classes have engaged in exciting activities celebrating the richness of German and Mexican traditions. From creating tombstones for famous deceased Germans to indulging in the festive spirit of Oktoberfest and immersing themselves in the colorful world of Dia de los Muertos, the students have embraced a unique educational journey.

For Mrs. Shopinski's German students, the celebration of Oktoberfest added an element of joy and festivity to the classroom. With a backdrop featuring the picturesque town of Rothenburg, students immersed themselves in German culture, capturing memories in a photo booth and decorating wooden hearts with traditional German phrases. These decorative hearts are a cherished part of the Oktoberfest experience and are typically made from gingerbread. Additionally, students crafted pretzel necklaces and participated in a lively game of Oktoberfest Bingo.

Dia de los Muertos, the Mexican Day of the Dead, marked the next stop on this cultural journey. In honor of this vibrant Mexican tradition, Mrs. Shopinski baked homemade Pan de Muerto, a traditional sweet bread commonly enjoyed during the holiday. To further enrich their understanding of Dia de los Muertos, the Spanish class participated in a virtual escape room, allowing students to solve puzzles while delving into the intricacies of the Mexican celebration.

Students in the advanced German 3 and 4 classes celebrated All Souls Day by creating tombstones featuring information about notable deceased figures from German history. To create an element of intrigue and mystery, Mrs. Shopinski displayed the tombstones throughout the auditorium with the lights off and eerie music playing. Students were tasked with using flashlights to explore the monuments and answering questions based on the information provided. This innovative approach to learning provided a thrilling experience while expanding students' knowledge of historical figures.

Mrs. Shopinski's innovative and immersive teaching methods broaden her students' cultural horizons and make learning a fun and engaging experience. The combination of hands-on activities and traditional celebrations leaves a lasting impression on her students, fostering a deeper appreciation for German and Mexican cultures.