German Lessons at HES
On the evening of November 11th in Germany, children and their parents go out in the dark of the night with lanterns lighting their way. They walk to their neighbors, going from house to house singing songs about a man named Martin, and they receive candy along the way. Is this Germany’s answer to Halloween? No, it is a celebration of a Roman solider from the 4th century, who demonstrated kindness, compassion and caring, when no one else would.
Legend has it that on a bitter cold day, Martin was riding with other Roman soldiers when he noticed a poor man sitting in the snow and pleading for help. Nobody stopped to help the poor man, who would certainly freeze to death if no help was given. Martin quickly stopped his horse, took out his sword and cut his thick, warm cloak in two. He gave the poor man one half, saving his life. Before the man could thank Martin, he quickly rode off to join his troops.
At Hortonville Elementary School, the 2nd graders were taught this story to learn about the importance of showing compassion, kindness and caring, just like Martin did. The students made their own lanterns and learned a song that German children sing on the night of November 11th.
“Ich geh’ mit meiner Laterne,
und meine Laterne mit mir...”
The 2nd grade students, accompanied by German teacher Mr. Craemer, sang the ‘Lantern’ song throughout the HES halls. The students enjoyed the story, had fun making the lanterns, singing the song, and learned an important lesson about showing great character.
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