Every November, we honor and celebrate the rich history and enduring contributions of Native Americans to our nation. If you want to help students learn more about Native American history, culture, and current impact, we’ve curated ideas for you utilizing past content from The Juice.
Notable Individuals Research
Start by playing this short Native American Heritage Month video, which introduces students to some prominent Native Americans who have played a crucial role in shaping our nation’s history. Encourage your students to select one of these individuals from the video and further explore them by writing a brief report.
Quote of the Day
Use this quote from Sitting Bull to engage students in written reflections or discussions about what the quote means to them. This can foster critical thinking and awareness of Native American wisdom.
Tips for Using the Quote of the Day
Explore Native American Tribes
Have students read this Extra Juice article, which provides background information about the current Native American Tribes. Then have students research the Native American tribes from their state or region. Use this infographic to have students learn about the states with the largest population of Native Americans today.
Spark Discussion on Native American Culture
Assign the following articles to students to initiate discussions on various aspects of Native American culture, beliefs, and their relationship with animals:
- Bison Return to Native American Land in Wyoming, Montana (July 17, 2023)
- Bald Eagles, Once on Brink of Extinction, Soar Again (July 14, 2022)
Celebrate Native American Achievement
Explore the remarkable story of Raven Cachon, the first Native American to win a Pulitzer Prize, in this article. Enhance your lesson by playing his music for your students.
Support Inquiry
Use the following articles to jumpstart discussion, writing or research about Native American injustice, guided by these essential questions”
- How are Native Americans still facing injustice in modern society?
- How can modern Americans make amends for centuries of injustice?
Articles to use:
- Supreme Court Upholds Law Giving Native Americans Preference in Adopting Indigenous Children (June 16, 2023)
- Pope Apologizes to Indigenous for Church Abuse of Schoolchildren in Canada (July 26, 2022)
- Atlanta’s Controversial “Tomahawk Chop” Criticized as Racist (October 29, 2021)
- Cleveland Indians Become Guardians in Nod to Indigenous Rights (July 27, 2021)
- Cleveland Indians to Rename Team Over Racism Concerns (December 15, 2020)
Looking for additional resources to celebrate heritage months? Check out these 7 great activities to celebrate Black History Month.
Why Is Studying History Important for Students?
