Let’s Celebrate: Diwali
We are now 3 days away from the start of Diwali and knowing how much teachers have on their plates, you may be scrambling to find an activity to do with your students to commemorate this special holiday.
Some of you may have students that celebrate this in their homes and want to make sure they feel encouraged to share about it at school. Others may not even be familiar with this holiday and are looking to become more informed.
Whichever camp you fall into, Diwali should be on our minds.
Since we are already thinking about it, we might as well explore the holiday and check out this new resource as well.
Become Informed: 3 Facts About Diwali
Diwali is a religious holiday that began in India.
Diwali traditionally lasts five days and takes place between October and November. It is the start of the Hindu New Year.
“Diwali” means “row of lights” and celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Because of this, many families incorporate lights into their celebrations (lanterns, diyas, or clay lamps, and fireworks)
*Source: https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/geography/general-geography/facts-about-diwali/ (A GREAT site for upper elementary/middle grades students to explore).
The Resource
How to Use it
This editable google slideshow will include 10 beautifully designed, culturally sensitive slides that you can use with your students.
The first activity is a read aloud using the book Binny’s Diwali by Thrity Umrigar. The unique vocabulary is front loaded and there is a student printable students can use to engage with the text while reading. There is a class discussion afterwards that will help them reflect on the characters, vocabulary, and meaning of Diwali.
The second activity is a craft. Students will make paper lanterns!
The third activity is a writing activity where students will apply the meaning of Diwali to their own lives. This will encourage your students to be good citizens of the world.
Want something geared towards older students? This heavily discounted resource is a great option!
This resource is geared towards older students who are comfortable with research. This resource targets three non-fiction skills: asking and answering questions, reading and interpreting grade level non-fiction text, and vocabulary. They will finish the exploration with an engaging real-world project.
Do you have an idea for a resource, but don’t have the time to make it? Click on the button below and you just may see that resource in my store!
