Blogs November is Native American Heritage Month, and for many teachers, that means finding opportunities to explore Native history, cultures, and contributions with their students.
Whether you teach kindergarten, high school chemistry, or anything in between, there are meaningful ways to connect Native American voices, perspectives, and contributions to the subjects you’re already teaching. And incorporating them into your classroom doesn’t have to mean adding another project to an already packed schedule. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Start With Stories in ELA
Books are a great way to introduce students to new perspectives and experiences. Consider incorporating works by Native authors into your read-alouds, independent reading, or class discussions. Encourage students to think about whose voices are represented, whose stories might be missing, and how hearing directly from Native authors can deepen their understanding. As students explore the characters, themes, and experiences that make each story meaningful, you can help challenge outdated stereotypes and highlight authentic Native voices.
Explore these resources to get started:
- “American Indians / Indigenous Peoples / Native Nations,” from Social Justice Books
- “Indigenous Texts,” from Tipler
- “American Indian Youth Literature Award,” from the American Indian Library Association (AILA)
- “American Indians in Children’s Literature,” from Debbie Reese and Jean Mendoza
- “Native American Books,” from First Nations Development Institute
Explore Native Knowledge in Science
Science lessons provide a natural opportunity to explore how Native communities have developed and shared knowledge about the environment for generations. Whether you’re teaching ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, or sustainability, consider highlighting how Native communities combine traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary science to care for the natural world. For example, students might investigate a Native-led conservation project, explore the scientific concepts involved, and discover how different forms of knowledge can work together to address environmental challenges.
Peruse the following resources for ideas and activities that bring Native knowledge and perspectives into your science lessons:
- Native Knowledge 360°, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian
- The Indigenous STEAM Collaborative
- Native Earth | Native Sky, Oklahoma State University, College of Education and Human Sciences
- “Indigenous Science,” The Alberta Teachers’ Association
- “Keepers of the Earth Lessons,” Tallgrass Prairie Center
Make Meaningful Connections in Math
Math might not be the first subject that comes to mind during Native American Heritage Month, but there are plenty of opportunities to make meaningful connections! Native architecture, engineering, and design offer real-world examples of mathematical concepts. Younger students might explore patterns and symmetry in Native artwork, while older students could investigate geometry in architecture or analyze data from Native-led environmental projects. Whenever possible, connect these activities to specific Tribal Nations and help students understand the cultural significance behind the designs and practices they’re exploring.
Explore the following resources for ideas on connecting Native cultures, contributions, and perspectives to mathematical concepts in your classroom:
- Native Knowledge 360°, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian
- “Native American Heritage Math Resources,” SABES
- “Penobscot Nation Youth Ball & Triangle Game: A Game of Chance (PK-2),” Native Indian Education Association
- “Navajo Weaving: A Lesson in Math and Tradition (3-5),” Native Indian Education Association
- “Picaria: A Zuni Math Game (6-8),” Native Indian Education Association
Discover Native Voices in the Arts
The arts offer opportunities to celebrate Native creativity, both past and present. From visual art and music to dance, theater, and storytelling, introduce students to Native artists and performers who use their creativity to express identity, share experiences, and tell stories. Encourage students to explore the techniques, traditions, and messages behind their work through discussions, reflections, or original creative projects. Be mindful of the cultural significance of certain artistic expressions, focusing on appreciation and understanding rather than imitation.
Check out the following resources for inspiration and ideas to bring Native voices and creativity into your arts instruction:
- “Student-Centered Digital Learning Activities,” Native Indian Education Association
- “Native Art, Native Voices: A Resource for K-12 Learners,” Minneapolis Institute of Art
- “Social Studies Arts Toolkit: Native American Culture,” Kentucky Educational Television (KET)
- “Quality Music Education Resources for Native American Heritage Month,” Mrs. Stouffer’s Music Room. Although this blog article was published in 2020, the author provides a wide variety of resources for music educators.
- “Dance Arts Toolkit: Dances of the Americas,” KET
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
As you bring Native perspectives into your classroom, it’s important to remember that each Tribal Nation has its own history, cultures, languages, and traditions. Whenever possible, highlight specific Nations and choose resources created by Native educators, authors, artists, and organizations. Be sure to move beyond historical perspectives by introducing students to Natives and communities making meaningful contributions today.
Thoughtful representation also means being mindful of the language we use and the stereotypes we may unintentionally reinforce. The following resources offer helpful guidance for creating authentic, respectful, and meaningful learning experiences:
- “Language Guide: Respecting Native American and Indigenous Peoples,” Teaching Channel
- “Tips for Teaching About Native Peoples,” from the Burke Museum
- “The Impact of Words and Tips for Using Appropriate Terminology,” from Native Knowledge 360°, National Museum of the American Indian
- “Essential Understandings About American Indians,” from the National Museum of the American Indian
- “How to Talk About Native Nations: A Guide,” from Native Governance Center
Make the Connections Last Year Round
Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity to be more intentional about whose voices and perspectives are represented in our classrooms, but these connections don’t have to end when November does. By including Native voices and perspectives in everyday learning, we help students develop a richer, more accurate understanding of the world around them.
For more ideas and resources to support your teaching during Native American Heritage Month and beyond, explore:
- Native Knowledge 360°, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian
- “Resources for Teaching About Indigenous Peoples,” from the National Education Association (NEA)
- “Native Heritage Month Resources,” from the National Indian Education Association (NIEA)
About the Author
Samantha Lundberg is the Associate Director of Content Development at PDI. She holds a B.S. in School Health Education, as well as a M.A. in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis. Samantha draws on her extensive knowledge to develop and refine engaging, research-based courses. Her work centers on helping educators create inclusive, supportive learning environments where social-emotional growth is prioritized and both students and teachers feel seen, supported, and mentally well.
Fun fact: Samantha has been to all of the U.S. Disney parks, as well as 3 of the international parks! She hopes to visit all of the parks someday.
