1. Topic-
An introduction to the Cree, Cherokee, and Blackfoot Native American Tribes
 
2. Content-
The culture and traditions of Native Americans Key Vocabulary: Tribe, Teepee Wigwam Headdress Moccasins Chief Ceremonies Rituals Papoose Reservation Trail of Tears
 
3. Goals: Aims/Outcomes-
1.Students should be able to name the important characteristics of each tribe, differentiating between their cultures and method of living/means of survival
2.Students should recognize the importance of family roles within each tribe and also the significance of nature, religion, and tradition in the lives of Native Americans
3.Students should be familiar with the origin and present location of each tribe
 
4. Objectives-
1.Students will be able to define key vocabulary associated with Native American tribes
2.Students will recognize the importance of personal expression through tribal music, dance, and art
3.Students will know that Native Americans are also called "American Indians"
4.Students will learn about how different tribes had signal cries or "calls" designed to be a means of communication
5.Students will learn to sing the tribal song, "Appeal for Clear Sky"(performed at ceremonies or rituals in order to promote peace), as well as how to perform a tribal dance
 
5. Materials and Aids-
A map showing the regions where each tribe originated and is now settled A CD with "Appeal for Clear Sky" song, along with a CD player (If not already in classroom) Indian princess costume Colored feathers, construction paper, stapler, and glue (for making headdresses to use in tribal dance) Empty oatmeal containers and sticks to serve as drums that the children can decorate Face paint for face painting activity Chopsticks and brown felt for constructing miniature teepees
 
6. Procedures/Methods-

A. Introduction-

1. Make a KWL CHART
2.Show students the map illustrating the regions where each tribe originated and is now settled
 

B. Development-

1.Explain in greater detail the traditions of each tribe and their method of living (in both the past and present)
2.Tell students about the significance of Native American names and encourage them to make a name up for themselves for the day (for example, "silver fox," "evening star") Teach the students to sing the tribal song "Appeal for Clear Sky," and also how to participate in the corresponding tribal dance
 

C. Practice-

1. Have students make headdresses, drums, and miniature teepees 2.Encourage students to take part in the face painting activity
3.Sing and dance to the song "Appeal for Clear Sky," letting the students use the props that they have created
 

D. Independent Practice-

1. Children will list the tribe and facts related to the tribe
2. Children will color a map identifying the tribe and where they currently live.
 

E. Accommodations (Differentiated Instruction)-

1.For hearing impaired students, let them feel the vibrations of the tribal music and also the beating and rhythm of the drums
2.For visually impaired students, let them feel the feathers on the headdresses and also the fabric on the American Indian princess costume
 

F. Checking for understanding-

1.Ask students to name what tribe is one of the largest American Indian groups in North America (Cree)
2.Ask Students to share with the class something interesting that they learned about one of the tribes
 

G. Closure-

1.Review the location of each tribe on the map 2.Review vocabulary associated with Native American tribes
3.Possibly expand the lesson to include what types of food are characteristic of each tribe, and to further discuss the important role that religion plays in the lives of Native Americans
 
7. Evaluation-
1. Observe as children complete assignments

2.Review of vocabulary words relating to Native Americans
 
8. Teacher Reflection-
Be sure to look for stereotypes and information that is not fact
 

This Lesson Plan is available at (www.teacherjet.com)