At the turn of the twentieth century, there were very few Latinos in New York City. Today a fourth of New York's population is of Hispanic origin. In the late 1940's and early 1950's, most of them were Puerto Ricans. But now more and more immigrants from other Latin countries are arriving, especially from the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Ecuador. By examining the recent census and immigration statistics and reading about the Latino neighborhoods in the South Bronx, Washington Heights and Jackson Heights, students will be able to have a better understanding of the Latino contributions to the development of the City.

1. Students will study the growth and change of the Hispanic communities in New York City and how they have contributed to the city at large.

2. Students will develop research skills by using information of primary and secondary sources.

3. Students will gain further understanding of the social study concepts such as immigration, social order, equality, conflict, multiculturalism, assimilation, and ethnic identity.

4. Students will develop critical thinking skills, graphic and map skills, and language and communication skills.

Students' participation in the group and class activities and neighborhood interviews; completed activity sheets; student's research paper.

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