Trash

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Day of the Dead Memorial for José”

In this activity, students will take inspiration from the Día de los Muertos to build a memorial for José acknowledging his sacrifice for the people of Behala.

When people celebrate the Day of the Dead, they often create memorials to remember their loved ones. Create a memorial for José and his sacrifice to the community. Use symbolic items from the novel to represent José and what he means to Behala. You may also use some traditional symbols from el Día de los Muertos in your presentation.

Use the questions below to guide your selection of items.

• What symbol would represent the sacrifice of José’s fatherhood in exchange for the people of Behala?
• Who was José’s primary motivation for what he did?
• What was ultimately the result of José’s sacrifice for the people?
• What evils has José conquered through death?
• Objects of comfort often are left for the people who have passed on. What comforts might José need?
• What concerns might José have had at the time of his passing that have now been resolved?

Be prepared to present your memorial in class and to explain with specific references to the novel your reasons for including each item.

Teaching Suggestion: Consider allowing students to read this article and/or this article on the traditional symbols of Día de los Muertos memorials. If students have difficulty brainstorming ideas, consider allowing them to discuss in small groups or brainstorm ideas with a partner. Symbols could include trash to represent how José helped the dumpsite people, a picture of his daughter to show she is well cared for, or an old Bible to represent the code José created.