Viva Cuba

Spanish Lesson Plan

Introduction: "Viva Cuba," directed by Juan Carlos Cremata Malberti, is a captivating Cuban film that tells the story of two children, Malú and Jorgito, who embark on a journey across Cuba to prevent their separation. Despite their differing social backgrounds, the children’s deep friendship propels them to face the challenges of their adventure together. This film is a powerful exploration of friendship, cultural identity, and social change, making it an excellent resource for Spanish language educators seeking to engage students with meaningful content that also provides insight into Cuban society.

Film Summary: In "Viva Cuba," Malú and Jorgito come from vastly different backgrounds—Malú from a more privileged family and Jorgito from a working-class one. However, their strong bond transcends these differences. When Malú's mother decides to leave Cuba, the children run away in a desperate attempt to find Malú’s estranged father and convince him to prevent the move. As they journey across the Cuban countryside, they encounter various challenges that test their friendship and resolve. The film provides a rich narrative that not only explores the innocence of childhood but also reflects the complexities of Cuban society.

Themes & Classroom Use: "Viva Cuba" is rich with themes such as friendship, cultural identity, and social change. These themes provide an excellent foundation for classroom discussions and activities that help students practice their Spanish in a meaningful context. The film also offers a unique perspective on life in Cuba, allowing students to explore cultural and social issues while improving their language skills.

Calendar Days for Classroom Integration:

• January 28th (José Martí’s Birthday): Discuss the film's exploration of Cuban identity and its connection to Martí’s ideals.
• April 22nd (Earth Day): Reflect on the film's portrayal of the Cuban countryside and the children’s journey through nature.
• May 20th (Cuba's Independence Day): Explore themes of independence and cultural identity within the film’s context.
• November 20th (Universal Children’s Day): Highlight the themes of friendship and the challenges faced by children in different social contexts.

Conclusion: "Viva Cuba" is more than just a film about childhood friendship; it’s a rich exploration of cultural identity and social change within the unique context of Cuban society. By incorporating this film into your Spanish curriculum, you offer students the chance to engage deeply with important themes while practicing their language skills. The FilmArobics lesson plans for "Viva Cuba" are crafted by teachers, for teachers, ensuring a structured and effective approach to language learning. Purchase this product today to bring the heartwarming and culturally insightful story of "Viva Cuba" into your classroom. IMDB

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