Writing Calavera Poems

Worksheet Description

This worksheet invites students to explore the unique tradition of “Calavera Poems,” associated with the Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. The sheet is headed with the term “Calavera Poems” in bold, underlined by an explanation that calaveras mean “skull” in Spanish. The text describes how these poems are satirical pieces that humorously depict living people as if they were dead, serving as a light-hearted reminder of the inevitability of death and the universal human experience. An example of a decorative calavera, adorned with a hat and embellishments, is displayed, tying in the theme of the activity.

The worksheet provides students with the opportunity to write their own calavera poem about a public figure, integrating creativity with cultural studies. This exercise not only encourages the practice of poetry writing skills but also imparts an understanding of how humor and art are used in cultural expressions surrounding the topic of mortality. By engaging in this activity, students get a hands-on approach to appreciating a facet of Mexican culture, which celebrates life and acknowledges death in a communal and festive spirit.