Objectives:
- Identify why Mexico fought for independence from Spain.
- Explain how Mexican independence affected Texas.
Scene 1 — Engage
Student Activity
Students read an introduction explaining European control of territories in the Americas and the focus on Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain. They review the lesson objectives, view an image of a modern Mexican Independence Day celebration, and respond to a word cloud prompt predicting which country in the Americas was the first to win independence from a European empire. Afterward, they examine a map showing when different areas of the Americas gained independence and read brief notes highlighting Texas’s independence as part of Mexico, Canada’s gradual independence, and remaining European territories.
Teacher Moves
Present the overview of the experience, including key vocabulary and objectives. Clarify that students are not expected to know the correct answer to the prediction but should choose a country in the Americas. Reveal that the United States declared independence in 1776, then display and, if desired, discuss the decolonization map to build context about independence movements across the Americas before moving on.
Scene 2 — Explore
Student Activity
Students examine a map of New Spain in 1819 and read about the extent of Spain’s empire, the role of viceroys, Spanish settlement patterns in Texas and Mexico, and how the American Revolution inspired other revolutions. They learn about Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s 1810 call for equality and independence, the long war that led to Mexican independence in 1821, and the Constitution of 1824, including its republican structure and official religion. Using this information, they complete a Venn diagram graphic organizer comparing and contrasting the Spanish colonial government and the new Mexican republican government.
Teacher Moves
Review or, if needed, teach the principles of the U.S. Constitution using The Seven Principles of the U.S. Constitution to support students’ understanding of republican government. If students are unfamiliar with Venn diagrams, model how to use them by filling in the “Both” section together. Guide students as they identify key features of Spanish and Mexican governments and place them appropriately in the organizer before transitioning to the next scene.
Scene 3 — Explain
Student Activity
Students read about conditions in Texas under Spanish rule and after Mexican independence, including the lack of Spanish settlers, distance from Mexico City, hostile Native American tribes, and the decline of missions and towns. They learn that some Anglo immigrants supported Mexican independence and that a few hoped Texas might eventually become independent or part of the United States. Using a graphic organizer, they summarize three problems facing the new Mexican government related to Texas, then post advice on a class wall suggesting how Mexico could develop and better control Texas.
Teacher Moves
Connect this content to the “six flags over Texas” by reminding students they have now studied the Spanish, French, and Mexican flags and previewing the remaining three. Support students as they identify and record problems Mexico faced in Texas, offering additional examples as needed. Review and highlight insightful student advice from the wall to prompt whole-class discussion about possible strategies Mexico might use to address these challenges.
Scene 4 — Elaborate
Student Activity
Students read an explanation of Diez y Seis (September 16) as Mexico’s Independence Day and consider why many Americans mistakenly associate Cinco de Mayo with Mexican independence. They then create a poster—either digitally or on paper and uploaded—that explains Diez y Seis or Cinco de Mayo, using additional research if needed to clarify the historical significance of the chosen holiday.
Teacher Moves
Clarify the historical event commemorated by Cinco de Mayo and explain why it is widely celebrated in the United States. Invite volunteers to present their posters to the class and facilitate a discussion about how and why these holidays are celebrated, including any family traditions students may share.
Scene 5 — Evaluate
Student Activity
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher Moves
Facilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
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