Indigenous People's History: Best Practices and Resources
Ideas and examples for integrating native history into your classroom studies. Learn how to find authentic information and text for research, as well as indigenous-run organizations and voices.
Best Practices
When weaving Native history into classroom learning, go directly to indigenous-run organizations and voices for resources and read Indigenous-authored and illustrated books—you will find links to both on this page. We encourage educators to incorporate Indigenous studies and perspectives ought into their curriculum, rather than added on as extra (and decontextualized) activities. The Akomawt Educational Initiative, an organization founded by members and/or allies of Native communities, generously granted us permission to share their best practices slides below.
Integrating Native History into the Classroom
Kattie Konno-Leonffu's fifth-grade science class used the Quinnipiac River as a springboard to explore water, ecosystems, and the history and cultures of indigenous people.
Students planted a Three Sisters Garden--corn, beans and squash--a planting method originally developed by Native Americans. Learn more about the Three Sisters of Indigenous American Agriculture on the USDA library website.
Local historian Jim Powers joined the class at Grannis Island to experience how Native People used the land by the Quinnipiac River.
How does geology impact geography? During a visit from the Connecticut River Museum, students learned about the formation of the Connecticut River and about human habitation along and utilization of river. Through interactive activities, they explored how Native People used the land and the impact of European tradespeople and settlers.
The New Haven Museum brought artifacts used by Native Americans who lived on land now occupied by the city of New Haven. Students were able to examine these items, learning about their significance to Native People how they were used.
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Students collaboratively shared their knowledge of Quinnipiac River ecology, geography, geology and the stories of its inhabitants over time in this three-dimensional map.
- Gather New Haven, Zion Jones, zion@gathernewhaven.org
- Dudley Farm Museum, James Power (Quinnipiac Tribe on Grannis Island Expert)
- New Haven Museum, Joanna Steinberg, Director of Learning and Engagement, 203.562.4183 x111
- CT River Museum
Learn about the history of local lands
STEAM Integration
Indigenous STEAM Collaborative
Hands-on activities, informational downloads, videos and other tools and resources for learning about plants, birds, food cycles, water and other science concepts that are also integral to native culture.
Indigenous Math Resources
Offering a wide variety of activities where students can engage with math concepts such as addition and subtraction, fractions, and geometry while learning about native lands, culture, stories, and more.
American Indians in Children's Literature
A comprehensive library of recommended books that accurately portray Native people and nations, compiled and researched by researchers who are also members of native nations.
