This lesson plan adheres to New York State Learning Standard 1- History of the United States and New York, Elementary Level, Key Idea #2. Additionally, this lesson plan corresponds with the National Social Studies Curriculum Standards thematic strands of culture, individual development & identity, and individuals, groups & institutions.
ANTICIPATORY SET
Ask students what “culture” means. Model the definition by pointing out tangible items that display culture in class. For example: a flag, clothing, language, etc. Explain to students that there are many cultures around the world and even within the United States. Ask students what the first culture was to inhabit the United States.
OBJECTIVE
Students will be able to examine primary sources for evidence of Native American culture. Students will identify what culture is and discuss the difficulty of stereotypes.
PURPOSE
This lesson is based on the Native American Discovery Kit. The unit plan should be used in Social Studies courses regarding Native American studies. It provides students with an overview of Native American culture and connects the theme of culture to stereotyping.
INPUT
Essential Information -
Utilize the anticipatory set to introduce your study of Native Americans. Hand out “Native American Culture Journal” to students. Have students record the definition of culture and reiterate examples used in class. While you read and learn about Native Americans have students fill out the “Native American Culture Journal” to record essential information from your text.
Activities -
As sections are filled out on the “Native American Culture Journal” view Discovery Kit images as a class to illustrate each section. Specifically, ask students to point out cultural elements in each photograph and list them as evidence on their Journals. As you view the images discuss diversity within Native American society.
MODELING
Give students examples of your culture, either as an educator or from your life outside of school.
CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING
Check student Culture Journals regularly, making corrections/suggestions often.
GUIDED PRACTICE
Monitor student work answering questions throughout.
CLOSURE
Discuss Culture Journals with students. Point out the problems of studying culture by focusing on stereotyping. What stereotypes do students experience? What stereotypes do Native Americans experience? How are these representations unfair?
Student Name:
Date:
Directions: Fill out this Culture Journal as we learn about Native Americans. Begin by defining culture.
Directions: As we read about Native American Society, define how Native Americans interpret each of the following cultural elements. After each element, list evidence from the photographs that proves your definition.
Evidence (from photographs):
Evidence (from photographs):
Evidence (from photographs):
Evidence (from photographs):
Evidence (from photographs):