THEMATIC ESSAY
This thematic essay adheres to New York State Learning Standard 5- Civics, Citizenship, and Government, Intermediate Level, Key Idea #2. Additionally, this assignment corresponds with the National Social Studies Curriculum Standards thematic strand of Civic Ideals and Practices.
This thematic essay is designed as an in class assignment to assess student learning when your study of Native American history is complete. Teachers should display Discovery Kit images of traditional Native American culture in class for students to choose from during their writing. Possible answers should include information on County of Oneida v. Oneida Indian Nation, Worcester v. Georgia, Indian Removal under President Jackson, Trail of Tears, Wheeler-Howard Act, and Bureau of Indian Affairs.
DIRECTIONS
Utilizing the images, their historical context, and your knowledge of United States history complete the following task.
THEME
EQUALITY-
Native Americans were not granted full United State citizenship until 1924. Still, economic, education, and housing conditions remained poor. In the 1960s the American Indian Movement attempted to further the goals of Native Americans. Recent court decisions and controversies include the issues of taxation and gambling as well as land ownership.
TASK
Choose two photographs and explain how they illustrate traditional Native American culture. Additionally, discuss how traditional Native American culture has been affected by two specific actions of the United States Government, (they may be positive or negative – be sure to back up your thesis with evidence).
GUIDELINES