Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | USA and Latin America: International Relations

Objectives

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to introduce students to the study of international relations with a focus on interactions between the USA and Latin America. This is essential for students to understand how these relationships have shaped and continue to influence the economic, political, and social aspects of the nations involved. The connection to the job market is highlighted through the development of practical skills such as critical analysis, research, and collaborative work, which are valuable in various careers.

Main Objectives

1. Understand the dynamics of dependency between the USA and Latin America.

2. Analyze the major historical conflicts between these regions.

3. Identify strategic partnerships established over time.

Side Objectives

1. Develop research and critical analysis skills.
2. Promote the ability to work in teams and solve problems.

Introduction

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to introduce students to the study of international relations with a focus on interactions between the USA and Latin America. This is essential for students to understand how these relationships have shaped and continue to influence the economic, political, and social aspects of the nations involved. The connection to the job market is highlighted through the development of practical skills such as critical analysis, research, and collaborative work, which are valuable in various careers.

Contextualization

The relations between the USA and Latin America are complex and multifaceted, involving economic, political, and cultural aspects. Since the Monroe Doctrine in the 19th century to contemporary trade and immigration policies, these interactions have shaped the fate of countless nations. Understanding these relations is fundamental to grasp the current global context and the power dynamics that influence our society.

Curiosities and Market Connection

🔍 Curiosities: Did you know that Latin America is one of the main suppliers of coffee to the USA? Additionally, American companies like McDonald's and Coca-Cola have a massive presence in the region, shaping consumption habits. 💼 Market Connection: Professionals in the fields of Foreign Trade, International Relations, and Economics often analyze these relations to identify business opportunities and strategic partnerships. Knowledge of these dynamics is essential for diplomats, market analysts, and managers of multinational companies.

Initial Activity

📽️ Initial Activity: Show a short video (5 minutes) that provides an overview of relations between the USA and Latin America, highlighting important historical moments and their consequences. After the video, ask the following provocative question: 'How do you think US policies impact your daily life here in Latin America?'

Development

Duration: 65 - 70 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to deepen students' knowledge of the relations between the USA and Latin America through practical and reflective activities. This will allow them to better understand the historical and contemporary dynamics of these interactions, developing critical and analytical skills that are essential in both academic and job market contexts.

Covered Topics

1. Monroe Doctrine and its impact on international relations
2. Cold War and the influence of the USA in Latin America
3. Economic and trade partnerships: NAFTA, Mercosur, and other agreements
4. Immigration policy and its consequences in Latin America
5. Military interventions and US policies in the region
6. Cultural and North American influence in Latin America

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how US policies and actions in Latin America influence daily life in their country. Ask how these interactions can affect the economy, politics, and even local culture. Encourage them to think of specific examples of how US presence and decisions impact aspects like the job market, available products, and government policies.

Mini Challenge

Building an Interactive Timeline

Students will create an interactive timeline highlighting the key events that shaped relations between the USA and Latin America. They will use digital tools (such as Google Slides, Prezi, or other presentation apps) to present historical events, conflicts, partnerships, and other significant interactions.

Instructions

1. Divide the class into groups of 4 to 5 students.
2. Each group must research and select at least 5 significant historical events illustrating relations between the USA and Latin America.
3. The events should be organized chronologically and presented in an visually attractive manner using the chosen digital tool.
4. Include short descriptions of each event, images, and, if possible, videos or links to additional sources.
5. After creating the timeline, each group must present their timeline to the class, explaining the importance of each selected event.

Objective: The objective of this activity is to allow students to explore and synthesize information about USA-Latin America relations creatively and collaboratively, developing their research, organization, and presentation skills.

Duration: 40 - 45 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. Explain how the Monroe Doctrine influenced US foreign policy towards Latin America.
2. Describe an example of a US military intervention in Latin America and its consequences.
3. What are the main trade agreements between the USA and Latin American countries? How do these agreements benefit or harm the involved nations?
4. Reflect on the cultural influence of the USA in Latin America: What are the positive and negative aspects of this influence?

Conclusion

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

📝 Purpose: The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to consolidate the knowledge acquired by students throughout the lesson, providing a moment for reflection and synthesis. This stage is crucial to ensure that students understand the relevance of the studied topic and are able to apply the discussed concepts in real-life contexts, both academic and professional.

Discussion

💬 Discussion: Facilitate an open discussion where students can share their reflections on the content presented. Ask how understanding relations between the USA and Latin America can influence their perceptions of politics, economy, and culture. Encourage them to consider how historical partnerships and conflicts impact the current and future international relations landscape. Promote a debate about the challenges faced by Latin America in dealing with US influence and invite students to think of possible solutions or strategies to strengthen the region's autonomy.

Summary

📜 Summary: Recap the main content covered in the lesson, such as the Monroe Doctrine, US influence during the Cold War, economic partnerships like NAFTA and Mercosur, and military and political interventions. Also highlight the cultural influence of the USA in Latin America and how these dynamics shaped history and continue to affect the current reality.

Closing

🔚 Closing: Explain how the lesson connected theory and practice through interactive activities such as creating the timeline. Emphasize the importance of understanding international relations for various careers, from diplomacy to foreign trade. Reinforce the relevance of the topic to students' daily lives, highlighting the practical consequences of US policies and actions in Latin America, whether in economy, politics, or local culture. Thank the students for their active participation and encourage them to keep exploring the topic outside the classroom.