Smithsonian's History Explorer Resources Related To "American Indian Perspectives on Thanksgiving"

You are the Historian: The First Thanksgiving

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 13:02:31 GMT

This interactive Web site from Plimoth Plantation, a Smithsonian Affiliate, focuses on clarifying fact and fiction surrounding the "First Thanksgiving." Students use audio from Plimoth Plantation historians, images of artifacts, and a glossary to answer questions and explore the lives of the Wamapanoag and English settlers, and their interactions. The presentation encourages critical thinking and historical investigation. A related Teacher's Guide includes a bibliography, educational standards alignment, and printable versions of the Web site's content. This site works best in Internet Explorer 5+. The site is most appropriate for children in grades two through six.

Tracking the Buffalo: You Be The Historian

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:57:44 GMT

What can we learn by studying a buffalo hide painting? In this activity, students will learn about the culture of the Plains Indians by determining the meaning of stories told on a buffalo hide painting and compare their interpretations to that of a Smithsonian historian. This activity is meant to help students learn more about Native American culture by analyzing and learning from objects; a guiding student worksheet is included. It is included in the website Tracking the Buffalo: Stories From a Buffalo Hide Painting.

Pueblo Pots Homepage

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 12:59:27 GMT

In this resource, students will investigate the roles that pottery and water played in the lives of the Pueblo Indians of New Mexico. Students will learn about Native American culture by reading the book entitled When Clay Sings and discover the symbolism of two modern pots in a hands-on activity. This OurStory module includes links to the activities and a list of other recommended readings about Native American culture. OurStory is a series of modules designed to help children and adults enjoy exploring history together through the use of objects from the Museum's vast collections, quality children's literature, and engaging hands-on activities. Ideal for afterschool use, OurStory resources allow students to think critically, to be creative, and to achieve academic standards both in and out of the classroom.