Last week, our 8th grade Spanish students had a unique cultural experience that brought their lessons to life! They had the opportunity to explore the rich traditions of South American countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay by enjoying a traditional tea called “mate.”

Students learned about the artisanship involved in making the vessels used to drink mate, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship of those made from silver and gold. They also got to see a variety of materials used to create these vessels—from simple metal cups to those made from a special type of pumpkin called “porongo” and even one crafted from a bull’s horn.

Beyond sampling mate, students immersed themselves in the tradition by enjoying it outdoors, as it’s often shared in South American culture. While sipping their mate, they engaged in lively discussions about their cumulative project that ties together the last three units on vacations, destinations, and parts of a city. For this project, each student wrote an essay in Spanish about their ideal vacation, weaving together vocabulary and cultural insights they’ve gained.

This experience was more than just a tasting—it was an authentic way for students to connect with the culture, language, and traditions of the countries they’ve been studying. Moments like these help students appreciate the beauty of other cultures while sharpening their language skills in a meaningful and enjoyable way.