An Immersive Day of Hispanic Language and Culture
On January 24, Grade 10-12 Spanish students had the opportunity for a full day of immersion to be exposed to and use the language they are passionate about, within a cultural context. It was the perfect opportunity to marry the grammar and vocabulary they have been learning with the rich culture that exists in the Hispanic world, also a significant emphasis in the new Ontario International Language Curriculum put forth earlier this year.
Students began their experience by attending the TIFF Bell Lightbox, the central hub of the Toronto International Film Festival. Here, a private screening of a film from the Dominican Republic which premiered this past year at the festival, was set up for us to watch and enjoy. Jeffrey, a documentary, follows a twelve year old boy living in the slums of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic.
Not only did we get an entire cinema to ourselves, but it came with popcorn and concessions. Film programmers introduced both the film and its cultural background in Spanish, and afterwards, took questions from the audience. It was an eye-opening experience for the students to see the discrepancy that is so prevalent in Hispanic nations between the classes, along with their struggles.
Our next stop on our Hispanic adventure was at Lula Lounge, a cultural spot in the heart of Toronto. Here students had the opportunity to practice their Spanish ordering food and beverages in the target language. After lunch, the Dominican theme continued, as our dance instructor taught students two dances native to the Dominican Republic, the Merengue and the Bachata. The students’ enthusiasm was so intense, that the instructor said she was blown away. She was also so impressed with their level of dance that she threw in advanced steps. Our students stepped up to the challenge.
Overall, it was a wonderful day of both education and fun, and most importantly, all done in Spanish!
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
13415 Dufferin Street King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
