In this one-class activity, you will research and write a short argumentative essay analyzing how Día de los Muertos differs from Halloween and why those differences matter. Use evidence from credible sources and explain your reasoning.
One-Period Writing Task (ELA / Social Studies): Día de los Muertos vs. Halloween — Differences and Why They Matter
Prompt: Write a short argumentative essay analyzing how Día de los Muertos differs from Halloween and why those differences matter (for culture, identity, community memory, commercialization, or how we treat traditions).
Your job:
Make a clear claim about the key differences.
Support your claim with evidence from research (light or full) and explain why the evidence supports your point.
Include one counterclaim (a reasonable opposing view or common misconception) and respond to it.
Research options (choose ONE):
Light research (10–15 min): Use 1–2 credible sources to gather 3–5 key notes.
Full research (20–25 min): Use 2–4 credible sources to gather 6–10 key notes.
Evidence expectations (use at least 2 types):
Quoted or paraphrased information from credible sources
Historical or cultural context (origins, purpose, practices)
Examples of modern celebrations and how meaning is communicated
Avoid: treating Día de los Muertos as “Mexican Halloween.” Focus on purpose and meaning.
Suggested pacing:
Research/notes: 10–25 min
Plan (thesis + 3-point outline): 5–10 min
Draft: 15–20 min
Quick revise: 5 min
Checklist before submitting:
Claim is specific (not just “they’re different”)
Uses evidence + explanation (not just facts)
Addresses why the differences matter
Includes counterclaim + response
Uses respectful, accurate language
Which statement best describes the central purpose of Día de los Muertos?
Which comparison is most accurate for an analytical essay?
Select the TWO pieces of evidence that would be strongest for supporting an argument about why the differences matter.
Match each writing term to its best description (useful for your essay).
| Draggable item | arrow_right_alt | Corresponding Item |
|---|---|---|
Counterclaim | arrow_right_alt | Your main argument |
Claim | arrow_right_alt | Facts from sources |
Evidence | arrow_right_alt | Explains why evidence matters |
Reasoning | arrow_right_alt | A reasonable opposing view |
Put these steps in the best order for completing this one-period essay.
Choose your best evidence and plan your paragraph order
Add a counterclaim and response
Quick revise for clarity and accuracy
Draft the essay with claim, evidence, and reasoning
Skim credible sources and take notes
Write a working claim (thesis)
In 3 words or fewer, name one key difference between Día de los Muertos and Halloween.
True or False: It is accurate to describe Día de los Muertos as “Mexican Halloween.”
Short Essay Submission
Write a short argumentative essay answering:
How does Día de los Muertos differ from Halloween, and why do those differences matter?
Requirements:
Clear claim (thesis)
At least 2 pieces of evidence from research (light or full)
Reasoning that explains why your evidence supports your claim
One counterclaim + response
If you paraphrase or quote, include a simple source note (title/organization and URL, or author/title)
Optional sentence frames (use only if helpful):
“Although both holidays involve _______, Día de los Muertos differs because _______. This matters because _______.”
“Some people argue _______; however, _______.”