Legends as Oral History

What is oral tradition, and what unique tool did the Native Americans of the Northern Great Plains use to help them remember their complex histories? Through pictograph analysis, discussion, research, and an engaging hands-on activity,...

What is an oral history interview? What goes into the planning and what should be said? Why is it important that we know and learn from oral history? This is an excellent learning exercise to support your young historians as they conduct...

What happens when you can't remain neutral? An informative lesson explores the impact of the American Revolution on the Iroquois Nations. Scholars learn about the six Iroquois nations and their treaty with the newly formed American...

Middle schoolers consider the insight to the past that oral histories can provide. They, in groups, analyze oral histories, prepare to interview a family member on their recollections of a historical event and then write a historical...

Sixth graders investigate point of view of a Native and a Missionary by reading articles by each.  In this Native Person versus Missionary lesson, 6th graders look at the contributions of the Atlantic First Nations.  Students role play...

Students investigate Canadian culture by examining mascots of the 2010 Olympics.  In this Canadian history lesson plan, students read a Vancouver Olympics guide to identify three Canadian mascots and their importance to the First Nations...

The First Peoples of America have a rich and long history, much of it passed down through stories or legends, and involving animals and nature. 5 short legends, each from a different tribe, are told here.

It's time for the feast! Young historians complete their study of the First Thanksgiving by completing an online activity, watching a slideshow, and examining a First Thanksgiving timeline. After answering text-dependent questions to...

Students create and perform Corridos which are oral tradition ballads. In this Passing Down Family History Through Oral Tradition lesson, students interview family members using a predetermined list of questions. In addition, students...