This semester, twelfth-grade students, guided by their Spanish teacher Viviana Arango, have embarked on a journey through the literature and culture of Latin America. Their central reflection revolves around one essential question: What does it mean to be Latin American?
Through the reading of One Hundred Years of Solitude, the iconic novel by Gabriel García Márquez, students explore biographical, anthropological, social, and cultural elements that define Gabo’s universe. They also analyze how historical processes and cultural roots have shaped Latin American identity. The academic year began with a literary journey through Mexico via the works of Juan Rulfo and Carlos Fuentes, followed by The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, and concluded with the magical realism of Macondo.
From the Deeper Learning perspective, this literary activity goes beyond acquiring knowledge of literature—it fosters essential life skills. Students engage in critical thinking as they analyze how modernity and foreign influence have shaped cultural identities across the region, making meaningful connections between literary texts and contemporary social realities. They also participate in collaborative projects that encourage debate and reflection on topics such as colonialism, globalization, and local traditions, strengthening their ability to communicate ideas effectively.
This pedagogical approach transcends literal comprehension, encouraging students to apply their learning to real-world contexts. For example, by exploring how literary narratives can shape their understanding of current social and cultural dynamics, students become agents of change, capable of addressing complex issues both locally and globally.
In this way, the literary journey through Latin America not only enriches their academic knowledge but also prepares them to be informed, thoughtful citizens committed to building a better future.
