Academic Programs –> National Museum of the American Indian
National Museum of the American Indian
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A class outside the National Museum of the American Indian.  Students have fun demonstrating a Yupik dance. | Pre-trip lesson: Students study the role that storytelling plays in the cultures of several Native American nations. In particular, students explore the pivotal role played by stories and storytellers in linking Native American communities to their history, ancestors, and traditions. Students also examine the different ways stories are told - not only orally, but also through dance, clothing, drawing, and other crafts - and how the stories and experiences of Native Americans vary from region to region. Trip: Students use their analytical skills to interpret various stories told by different Native American nations in very different ways. Students also have the unique opportunity to hear a traditional Sac and Fox story told by a Native American and examine how different parts of the buffalo were used for everyday items. Post-trip lesson: As a culminating activity, students describe themselves through symbols by creating a power shirt. Students choose an animal symbol, a Lakota symbol, and design their own symbol which all help tell each student’s individual story. Students also test their knowledge of various Native American cultures and the importance of storytelling as they compete in a collaborative review game and take written assessments. Academic Standards: Reading (4.IT-E.3, 4.IT-DP.6, 4.IT-E.5); Mathematics (4.DASP.3); Social Studies (4.2.1, 4.3.6) |
