Looking for a fresh and meaningful way to engage your Spanish learners? This music-based lesson uses the powerful song ¿Dónde jugarán los niños? by iconic Mexican rock band Maná to build vocabulary, inspire critical thinking, and spark meaningful conversation about the environment, childhood, and cultural perspectives—all while supporting key language skills.
This resource is designed with flexibility in mind: use it as a stand-alone cultural mini-unit, an enrichment activity, or as part of a larger unit on music, social issues, or environmental awareness. Whether you're teaching in person or virtually, this lesson supports reading, listening, speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication with print and digital formats available.
What Skills Does This Lesson Target?
Vocabulary development in context
Listening comprehension using authentic input
Analyzing song lyrics for theme and tone
Making cultural and personal connections
Developing presentational and interpersonal skills
Practicing reading fluency and pronunciation
Lesson Sequence Included:
1. Vocabulary Preview & Pronunciation
2. Lyrics Vocabulary Application
3. Biographical Context & Title Exploration
4. Lyric-Based Critical Thinking Questions
5. Creative Application Activities
What’s Included:
Vocabulary practice with pronunciation support
Lyrics-based vocabulary activity (print & digital)
Video comprehension and class discussion prompts
Critical thinking questions for lyric analysis
Creative final product options with student choice
Teacher instructions and suggestions for scaffolding
Perfect For:
Spanish 2–AP or Heritage Speaker classes
Thematic units on music, culture, or environmental justice
Spanish language enrichment and extension
SEL and culturally responsive teaching through music
Project-based learning and performance tasks