Language and Section:  SPA 13.2

 Date:  12/1/2011

 Class theme/topics discussed: Religion

 Goal of the class: To talk about religion in general and about new, growing religions in Uruguay.

 Structure of the class (unless you attach your lesson plan below):

–        I introduced language and concepts related to the two fastest growing religions in Uruguay (Umbanda and Pare de Sufrir); both has spiritist elements and began their rise during the economic crisis of 2002. Terms used:

– Pai/Mai

– Orisha

– “Trabajo”

 

– Pastor

– “Dios vivo”

– Espíritu maligno

 

–        We watched a short video on Pare de Sufrir on youtube; it features a “Pastor” trying to perform an exorcism via the TV.

–        We talked about religion in America and Uruguay

What technology, media or props did you use? (satellite tv, internet resources, playmobiles, etc.)

TV, laptop, whiteboard. Video used: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6UlOZ5HVq0

 What worked well in this class? What did not work?

 The topic was very, very motivating for the students. We talked a lot about religion and they were very interested in its social and political role. They linked the new information with different religious movements in America. Everyone participated a lot. WARNING: since this is a very sensitive topic, I waited until very late in the semester, when I knew my students enough to feel comfortable approaching it.

 

How could this class be improved/ modified?

 I should have saved two classes for this, as I did it right before the end of the semester and could not follow up on it.

 Please attach your lesson plan and handouts for this class below – if you used any.