Annenberg Learner: American Passages: Native Voices, Chippewa Songs

This unit features the rich oral tradition of Native Americans storytelling in various genres predating the introduction and influence of English writings, bringing three contemporary authors to light. RI.11-12.8 seminal U.S. texts,...

Sioux visionary and leader, Black Elk, and his aide to writing Black Elk Speaks, poet John D. Niehardt, are featured in this lesson with regard to the concept of oral tradition in American and Native American writing. Click on "Black Elk...

This passage highlights the contributions of poet Louise Erdrich to the literary world. Access recordings, photos and classroom activities through the tab "Louise Erdrich Activities."

Accomplished Native American author Leslie Marmon Silko is featured in this resource. Some of her writings include "Ceremony" and "Laguna Woman." Click on the "Leslie Marmon Silko Activities" tab for class activities and a collection of...

This search engine provides access to more than 3000 items including visual art, audio files, primary source materials, and additional texts supporting and enriching the understanding of American Literature. RI.9-10.9 US Documents,...

Zora Neale Hurston is featured in this biography highlighting her literary contributions which focused on African Americans as whole people, celebrating their heritage, in an era when black authors tended to write about their...

American Passages presents a concise biography of nineteenth century progressive American poet, Walt Whitman. See "Walt Whitman Activities" for artifacts and activities.

Prompted to write so as to raise his family out of debt, Herman Melville, acclaimed American author of the nineteenth century is portrayed in this brief biography. See "Herman Melville Activities" for related materials.

This biography features Mark Twain as a regional realist author, world renown for his ability to portray real Americans in the late nineteenth century. Click "Mark Twain Activities" for artifacts and activities.

Drawing on Pueblo culture and history, author/poet Simon Ortiz is the focus of this resource. Click on "Simon J. Ortiz Activities" for a sound bite and discussion or activity questions.