My classes love to play Mexican lotería. I use dried beans for markers. I use regular bingo cards or make up special ones that link up with themes in the curricululm. Children play in pairs to get five beans in a row. The very center space is gratis (free).
For example, I have constructed one for fruits. The plastic fruits I use in class are put into a bag, and one child, without looking inside, has to pick a fruit out and name it before the class can put beans down.
When a pair of children win, they have to jump up and shout, "¡Lotería!" Then we check their board for accuracy. Finally, I give out simple premios -- Spanish-themed stickers, pieces of bulletin board trim, pencils, etc.
Just one caution about the authentic (and very artistic) lotería boards from
México -- the symbols on the board and the accompanying cards can be objectionable to some US parents. Check them out thoroughly beforehand.
Examine these links for more lotería boards and ideas. The last three URLs also give details about how the game is traditionally played in México, including responses:
