Sinterklaas

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 2

Which words come to mind thinking of Sinterklaas and (Black) Pete?

Sinterklaas clip

Pay attention! 

If you hear a word you don't know, try to guess the meaning.

Clip 1: the history of Sinterklaas

Clip 2: people from other countries talking about Sinterklaas. 

Sinterklaas refers to two things:

1. his birthday and pakjesavond
2. his name and to the pakjesavond holiday
3. the day he died and we celebrate now
4. pakjesavond and surprises

When does Sinterklaas arrive in the Netherlands?

1. mid November
2. beginning of December
3. end of October
4. end of November

What is a chimney?

Dutch culture:

BIKES

an interactive video

Watch closely and answer the questions. 

Why did the lady feel 'integrated' in Dutch society?

1. She was biking really fast.
2. She carried a painting on her bike.
3. She was complimented on her biking skills.
4. She went biking with a friend.

What is spectacular to see?

1. all the bikes in Amsterdam
2. getting hit by a Vespa
3. tourists trying to cycle
4. all the bikes coming from both directions

What do the French ladies say? Biking is:

1. dangerous
2. fast-paced
3. exciting
4. boring

Why are the Dutch so good at biking?

1. They don't wear helmets.
2. They often don't have cars.
3. They start biking at a really young age.
4. It's biology.

Which Dutch words are common during sinterklaas? Make a top 10:
(in Dutch, so help each other out!)

Writing assignment

Make a Sinterklaas poem in English

How to make a Sinterklaas poem?

Sinterklaas always writes poems for the children. As adults, we continue this tradition by writing poems to introduce the gift or to just make someone feel special. Here are some examples:

For a sweet tooth:

Dear [Name], you’ve been such a delight,

Spreading joy and laughter day and night.

Sinterklaas heard of your love for a treat,

So here’s a surprise—something sweet to eat!

For someone handy

Oh [Name], the stories have reached Sint’s ear,

Of your skills with tools that bring much cheer.

Whether fixing, building, or making things new,

This gift is perfect for someone like you!

For someone sporty

Sint has seen you out on the field,

With strength and spirit that never yield.

To cheer you on with your sporty flair,

This little gift shows how much we care.

Now write your own sinterklaas poem for your buddy!

- Try and use personal details

- Write at least 8 lines

- Try and see if you maybe can incorporate some Dutch words/customs

- when you're finished, make sure to give it to your buddy!

Welcome, dear students, from far and near,

Sinterklaas himself is delighted you’re here!

From Finland to Holland, you've traveled with care,

To learn, to connect, and adventures to share.

Zoetermeer will test your wit and your speed,

A scavenger hunt to meet every need.

Leiden will charm you with history and light,

And Dutch culture will shine, both day and night.

But this week is more than the places you go,

It’s about the values that help us all grow.

Respect and teamwork, kindness, and cheer,

These are the gifts Sint treasures most dear.

In this exchange, there’s much to explore,

Posters to make, stories to store.

Through laughter and learning, friendships take flight,

Building a Europe that's strong and bright.

So as we begin, let’s raise a hooray,

For this week full of memories, starting today.

Sinterklaas is watching, so let’s make it clear—

You’re the best group of students he’s seen this year!

Welcome, dear students, from far and near,

Sinterklaas himself is delighted you’re here!

From Finland and Lithuania to Holland, you've travelled with care,

To learn, to connect, and adventures to share.

Zoetermeer will test your wit and your speed,

A scavenger hunt to meet every need.

Leiden will charm you with history and light,

And Dutch culture will shine, both day and night.

But this week is more than the places you go,

It’s about the values that help us all grow.

Respect and teamwork, kindness, and cheer,

These are the gifts Sint treasures most dear.

In this exchange, there’s much to explore,

Posters to make, stories to store.

Through laughter and learning, friendships take flight,

Building a Europe that's strong and bright.

So as we begin, let’s raise a hooray,

For this week full of memories, starting today.

Sinterklaas is watching, so let’s make it clear—

You’re the best group of students he’s seen this year!