Happy Independence Day, Argentina!
Ok--we're a little late. =) Officially, Argentina's Independence Day is celebrated on July 9th, though, like Americans, they adjust holidays for school and business closings so that they can enjoy and celebrate with their families.
It marks their independence from Spain in the early 1800's, and families in Argentina celebrate by listening to speeches, visiting memorials, and enjoying one of their all-time favorite foods, "pasada" (BBQ!)
To learn about Argentina, we took a look at their flag, their location on the map, pictures of people in indigenous dress (such as Gaucho or traditional cowboy dress) and also learned about a popular form of music and dance that originated from Argentina--the Tango!
Tango music traditionally uses violins, a double bass, and a bandoneon, which looks a lot like an accordion and is from the same family of concertina. It is marked by its particular sound and the dance involves very intimate, attitudinal moves--some of which are a little too "saucy" for watching in music class, haha! ;)
Beyond learning all about the tango music and checking out the pictures, older children also enjoyed coloring an Argentinian flag with the colors blue and yellow. Check out the questions below to keep the conversation going at home!
Harper pointed to the sun when asked where it was! =)
Warming up our voices and rhythms with a little classic "Five Little Monkeys!"
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR CHILD
1) What colors are in the flag of Argentina? Blue, white and yellow!
2) Do you remember what kind of food the people from Argentina like to eat during Independence Day? BBQ!
3) What instruments are in tango music? The violin, double bass, and bandoneon (like an accordion)