SPAN 1203 Only Assignment (10%) DEALINE: Nov 23/2015 ✓ Solved

Objective: To give students the opportunity to widen their knowledge about the Spanish Speaking World in terms of the geographical, demographical, socio-cultural, and economical aspects and to be aware of all the richness that we can find in its natural and human resources. To help students to realize that in this continent (America) that we share, there are millions of people, although with a different language, traditions, customs, etc. we have a variety of aspects in common and so much to learn from. It is important to keep in mind that our relationship with Spain, and the Latin American Countries, does not stop at an economic level, but it includes also a great deal of cultural aspects.

We can see the clear influence in the field of music, art, literature, sports, etc. The contribution from the Spanish world to North American life is countless.

Content: Part I. (MUST BE WRITTEN IN SPANISH) A– List the names of ALL Spanish Speaking Countries in the world. B—From the previous list select the Mexico and the Central American countries, and… C– Name each country’s Capital City D– Add two of the most Important Cities in each country E– Mention the Nationality (i.e. colombiano, cubano, salvadoreño, etc.) F– Population (per country) G– Area in Km². H– Naming two of the major Exports (products) from each country to N.A. and the World. (i.e. coffee, bananas, oranges, flowers, meat, petroleum, electricity, etc.)

Part II. (MUST BE COMPLETED IN SPANISH) – Choose TWO of the countries listed above and name three (3) famous people for each country and their contributions to their countries and to the world, in the field of: politics, history, sciences, medicine, arts, literature, sports, music. Then write two lines describing why they are considered as “un orgullo hispano” (a Hispanic pride).

Part III. – Choose ONE country, then write a brief essay (in ENGLISH) consisting of words about several topics including: Independence day, economy, education system, currency, per capita income (PCI), family relations and traditions, current form of government and political party in power. Any social discontent at this moment. You may also add a short description of the wonders and beauty of the nature of this part of the world. In addition, include a brief dialogue (approximately 150 words) that describes your experience interacting with a person in the chosen country.

This project MUST be completed in groups of THREE students; individual works will not be accepted, except in special circumstances.

Evaluation: Format: 20% Content 80% (Part I: 20 %; Part II: 30%; Part III: 30%) Please note: There is no need for a title page, simply provide your personal information following the model at the top of the first page.

Paper For Above Instructions

Part I

A. Spanish Speaking Countries:

  • Argentina

  • Bolivia

  • Chile

  • Colombia

  • Costa Rica

  • Cuba

  • Dominican Republic

  • Ecuador

  • El Salvador

  • Equatorial Guinea

  • Guatemala

  • Honduras

  • Mexico

  • Nicaragua

  • Panama

  • Paraguay

  • Peru

  • Spain

  • Uruguay

  • Venezuela

B. Selected Countries: Mexico and Central American countries.

C. Capitals:

  • Mexico - Mexico City

  • Guatemala - Guatemala City

  • Honduras - Tegucigalpa

  • El Salvador - San Salvador

  • Nicaragua - Managua

  • Costa Rica - San José

D. Important Cities:

  • Mexico: Guadalajara, Monterrey

  • Guatemala: Quetzaltenango, Escuintla

  • Honduras: San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba

  • El Salvador: Santa Ana, San Miguel

  • Nicaragua: León, Granada

  • Costa Rica: Alajuela, Cartago

E. Nationality:

  • Mexico: Mexicano

  • Guatemala: Guatemalteco

  • Honduras: Hondureño

  • El Salvador: Salvadoreño

  • Nicaragua: Nicaragüense

  • Costa Rica: Costarricense

F. Population (approximate):

  • Mexico - 126 million

  • Guatemala - 18 million

  • Honduras - 10 million

  • El Salvador - 6.5 million

  • Nicaragua - 6.1 million

  • Costa Rica - 5 million

G. Area in Km²:

  • Mexico - 1,964,375 km²

  • Guatemala - 108,889 km²

  • Honduras - 112,492 km²

  • El Salvador - 21,041 km²

  • Nicaragua - 130,373 km²

  • Costa Rica - 51,100 km²

H. Major Exports:

  • Mexico: Cars, electronics

  • Guatemala: Coffee, bananas

  • Honduras: Coffee, textiles

  • El Salvador: Coffee, sugar

  • Nicaragua: Coffee, beef

  • Costa Rica: Pineapples, electronics

Part II

Mexico:

  • Carlos Slim (Businessman): Known for his work in telecommunications.

  • Frida Kahlo (Artist): Renowned for her unique and influential art.

  • Diego Rivera (Painter): Key figure in Mexican muralism and symbol of national identity.

Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are considered “un orgullo hispano” for their revolutionary contributions to art that celebrate Mexican culture.

Guatemala:

  • Rigoberta Menchú (Activist): Nobel Prize laureate known for indigenous rights activism.

  • Alfonso Quiñónez (Politician): Key figure in Guatemala's political reform.

  • José Luis Chea (Writer): Contributed significantly to Guatemalan literature.

Rigoberta Menchú is considered “un orgullo hispano” for her advocacy for the rights of indigenous populations highlighting their struggles globally.

Part III - Country Essay on Mexico

Mexico, a country known for its rich history, amazing cuisine, and diverse population, celebrates its Independence Day on September 16th. The economy has a mixed economic system, majorly driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with a total GDP of approximately $1 trillion (World Bank, 2021).

The education system in Mexico includes both public and private sectors, with recent reforms aiming to improve quality. The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), and the per capita income is around $9,000 (IMF, 2021).

Family relations in Mexico emphasize close familial bonds, with traditions revolving around communal gatherings during major festivities. Currently, the government is a federal republic, with Andrés Manuel López Obrador serving as the president. Social discontent is noticeable in regions impacted by crime and corruption.

In terms of natural wonders, Mexico boasts beautiful beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, magnificent landmarks like the Mayan ruins, and breathtaking landscapes in areas such as Oaxaca and Chiapas. Tourists are invited to explore its vibrant culture, delectable food, and historical sites.

Experience Dialogue:

During my visit to Mexico, I met a local named Juan at a colorful market in Oaxaca. "Hola! ¿Te gustaría probar un taco?” he asked, offering me a delicious treat. I replied, “Yes, please! It smells amazing here." Juan smiled, “Oaxaca is known for its great food! You'll love it here.”

“Thank you! I can't wait to explore more,” I responded, appreciating his welcoming attitude.

References

  • International Monetary Fund. (2021). World Economic Outlook.

  • World Bank. (2021). Mexico Overview.

  • Statista. (2021). Mexico: GDP per capita.

  • United Nations. (2021). Population by Country.

  • OECD. (2021). Education in Mexico.

  • World Population Review. (2021). Guatemala Population 2021.

  • Trade Map. (2021). Export data by country.

  • National Geographical Society. (2021). Geography of Mexico.

  • Reynolds, D. W. (2020). Psychology of Mexican Families. Journal of Family Psychology.

  • Menchú, R. (1998). I, Rigoberta Menchú: An Indian Woman in Guatemala. Verso.