Cinco de Mayo Writing Prompts

Item description

This Cinco de Mayo writing prompts resource includes 15 themed prompts to get students thinking and writing about Cinco de Mayo and the associated experiences and activities. There are 5 writing prompts for each of the following categories: opinion writing, informative/explanatory writing, and narrative writing.

We have also included mini versions of each writing prompt that can easily be pasted into an interactive notebook or writing journal and completed therein. Additionally, there is a cover page that can be colored by the students and stapled to their completed writing prompts.

Journal Writing Prompts in this Resource:

Opinion Writing Prompts

• Should those who are not of Mexican descent celebrate Cinco de Mayo? If so, how should they participate? If not, why not?
• Should school activities include some for Cinco de Mayo? If so, what should they be and for what purpose?
• Is breaking a piñata an appropriate activity for a child’s birthday fiesta? Can you suggest any safety rules?
• How are Cinco de Mayo celebrations important in places outside of Mexico?
• Why do you think people from other countries want to live in the United States?

Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompts

• What do you know of the origin of Cinco de Mayo in Mexico? How did the battle against the French in 1862 influence history?
• Mexican Independence Day is September 16th. In the United States, why is Cinco de Mayo often confused with this day?
• Do you speak Spanish? Is there an advantage to speaking more than one language?
• Explain how celebrations for Cinco de Mayo influence the local economy and culture.
• Mexican recipes use chili peppers, cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and anise. Who prepares your favorite Mexican meals?

Narrative Writing Prompts

• Do you know someone with a Mexican background? Tell about your favorite Mexican customs or traditions.
• A fiesta is a celebratory party. Tell about a party that you attended. What were you celebrating?
• Have you ever traveled to Mexico? Write to tell about it. If not, where in Mexico would you like to visit?
• Imagine traveling in Mexico’s deserts. What supplies and clothing would be necessary?
• Plan a fiesta for Cinco de Mayo. Tell about your menu, activities, and music.