Being close in proximity to Mexico, we see a lot of culture sharing between our two countries. Getting more specific, one could say that our state culture of Texas has fused with that of Mexico to create something truly unique and wonderful. We have even adopted a word to describe this phenomenon - "Tex-Mex".

It is easy to stereotype other Spanish-speaking countries based on what we know about Mexico. However, as we learned last year in Spanish 1A, these countries, though similar in some aspects, are really quite different. Answer the following questions as a way of reflecting on Mexico and Texas:



List at least 1 thing that we have here in Texas that we can attribute to Mexican culture. (This can be a food, a word, a good, a holiday, etc.)
What is something that we have here in Texas that we THINK is traditionally Mexican, but in reality is not? (Example: "Queso" as we know it in Texas is melted cheese. However, in Mexico, "queso" is just cheese in general - block of cheese, shredded cheese, etc. The food that we know and love as "queso" in Texas is actually called "queso fundido" in Mexico.)
How might it be beneficial as a Spanish student to live in a state that is so close to a Spanish-speaking country? Have you personally taken advantage of this opportunity as it relates to your own Spanish learning journey?

1) One thing that we have in Texas that we can attribute to Mexican culture is the tradition of celebrating Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is celebrated with parades, music, dance, and traditional Mexican food like tacos and enchiladas.

2) Something that we have in Texas that we think is traditionally Mexican but is not is the flour tortilla. In Texas, flour tortillas are a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, but in most parts of Mexico, corn tortillas are more commonly used.

3) It is highly beneficial as a Spanish student to live in a state that is close to a Spanish-speaking country like Mexico. Living in close proximity to Mexico provides more opportunities to practice and immerse oneself in the Spanish language and culture. It allows students to have access to native Spanish speakers and authentic cultural experiences, which can greatly enhance their language skills.

Personally, as a Spanish student, I have taken advantage of living in Texas by traveling to Mexico several times. These trips have allowed me to practice my Spanish with locals, experience the Mexican culture firsthand, and gain a deeper understanding of the language through immersion. Additionally, being close to Mexico has also allowed me to access authentic Mexican cuisine and attend cultural events or festivals that celebrate Mexican traditions.

now write it as a 7th grade and dont mention speaking spanish in mexico

1) One thing that we have in Texas that comes from Mexican culture is the celebration of Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that commemorates a Mexican victory in a battle against the French army in 1862. In Texas, we celebrate with parades, music, dancing, and enjoying traditional Mexican foods like tacos and enchiladas.

2) Something that we have in Texas that we think is Mexican but is not actually traditionally Mexican is the use of flour tortillas. In Texas, we commonly use flour tortillas in Tex-Mex cuisine, but in most parts of Mexico, corn tortillas are more commonly used.

3) Living in a state that is close to a Spanish-speaking country like Mexico can be beneficial for 7th grade Spanish students. It gives us more opportunities to learn about the Mexican culture and traditions, which can improve our understanding of the Spanish language. We can try different Mexican foods, learn about their history, and perhaps even celebrate their holidays. This exposure to another culture can broaden our horizons and help us better understand the diversity of our world.

Personally, I haven't had the chance to visit Mexico yet, but I have learned about its culture in class through books, videos, and discussions. I find it fascinating how our state, Texas, has been influenced by Mexican culture, and it makes me appreciate the connections we share. Hopefully, in the future, I will have the opportunity to visit Mexico and experience their culture firsthand.

write it but i have visited mexico beforte

1) One thing that we have in Texas that comes from Mexican culture is the celebration of Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that commemorates a Mexican victory in a battle against the French army in 1862. In Texas, we celebrate with parades, music, dancing, and enjoying traditional Mexican foods like tacos and enchiladas.

2) Something that we have in Texas that we think is Mexican but is not actually traditionally Mexican is the use of flour tortillas. In Texas, we commonly use flour tortillas in Tex-Mex cuisine, but in most parts of Mexico, corn tortillas are more commonly used.

3) Living in a state that is close to a Spanish-speaking country like Mexico can be really cool for 7th grade Spanish students like me! I've had the chance to visit Mexico before, and it was an amazing experience. Being so close to Mexico allowed me to immerse myself in the Spanish language and the Mexican culture. I got to practice speaking Spanish with the locals, try authentic Mexican foods, and learn about their traditions and history. It made learning Spanish even more exciting and meaningful because I could see how the language is used in real-life situations. I feel lucky to have this opportunity and it has definitely helped me in my Spanish learning journey.