When I was fifteen years old (long before the Internet), the only exposure I had to places like Peru was what I learned in my Spanish class. I distinctly remember a poster that was taped to my Spanish teacher's desk. For two years, I would stare at it and daydream about the people who decided to make a city high in the Andes Mountains. I promised myself that one day I would go there to see it for myself.
Fast forward to 2012. I received an email at my school account announcing a trip to Peru with EF and Primary Source, a non-profit organization in Massachusetts that promotes history and humanities education by connecting educators with people and cultures throughout the world. (Check out: www.primarysource.org) When my husband gave me the thumbs up, I signed up immediately.
Just a two weeks ago, I got an email from Primary Source inviting me to login to my Moodle account to begin my pre-orientation assignments. The nerd inside of me is having so much fun learning about Peru.
I will share a few of the things I have learned so far.
1. Geography
Do you know what caused the Andes Mountains to form? I found it fascinating. Geography needs to be taught!
http://youtu.be/iyCGq-rt9jU
2. Biodiversity
Do you know the difference between llamas, alpacas, vicunas, and guanacos? Read this! http://www.discover-peru.org/relatives-of-the-camel/
3. El Nino
I remember having heard about the El Nino on the news when I was a kid, but I really didn't pay too much attention to it. Now as an adult, I'm definitely more concerned about our climate.
http://youtu.be/7FVZrw7bk1w
4. Food
Potato is the most important food in Peru. Learn why.
http://www.discover-peru.org/native-crops-peru-potato/
I hope you join me as I prepare to travel to Peru! 100 days to go!
