There are many books related to Native Americans of the California Intermountain Region that can help students to better visualize and understand the people and their rich culture. Some short picture books can be used as a whole class read-alouds where other longer books can be used as longer novel studies. In this activity, students will create a plot summary of a book or folktale that they've read.
The book used for the example is by Deborah Kogan Ray. It is the story of Sarah Winnemucca an activist, author, and educator who was a member of the Northern Paiute tribe of Nevada in the 1800s. She fought for the rights of her people and peace between Native Americans and the white settlers. It is appropriate for students aged 9-13.
is a collection of traditional stories from the Maidu people.
, retold by Gloria Dominic, is the legend of how the Pomo nation overcame drought and starvation with the help of Coyote.
by Brad Meltzer and Christopher Eliopoulos, tells the story of the legendary Shoshoni woman Sacagawea who led the Lewis and Clark Expedition
by Simon J. Ortiz is a book that honors Native Americans all over North America. With beautiful illustrations and lyrical prose, it describes beliefs, traditions, and hardships faced by the First Nations of North America.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Summarize the story in a 3-5 cell storyboard describing the main events in the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
Student Instructions
Connect students with authentic stories by weaving Native American books into social studies topics. This approach helps students see history through multiple perspectives and deepens cultural understanding.
Choose texts that represent different tribes and experiences in the California Intermountain region. This exposes students to a wider range of voices and cultural traditions.
Start with questions or images that help students connect prior knowledge to the new text. Building context before reading increases engagement and comprehension.
Encourage students to relate story events or characters to their own lives. Personal connections foster empathy and deeper understanding of the text.
Model respectful listening and questioning as students discuss cultural values or historical events from the readings. This builds a safe space for thoughtful reflection and diverse viewpoints.
Recommended books for upper elementary students learning about Native Americans of the California Intermountain Region include Paiute Princess: The Story of Sarah Winnemucca by Deborah Kogan Ray, Maidu Indian Myths and Stories of Hanc'ibyjim, Coyote and the Grasshoppers: A Pomo Legend by Gloria Dominic, I am Sacagawea by Brad Meltzer and Christopher Eliopoulos, and The People Shall Continue by Simon J. Ortiz.
Use picture books for whole-class read-alouds to introduce key ideas and spark discussion. Longer novels can be assigned for novel studies, allowing students to dive deeper into themes, character development, and the cultural context of the California Intermountain Native peoples.
Sarah Winnemucca was a Northern Paiute activist, author, and educator in the 1800s who fought for her people's rights and promoted peace between Native Americans and white settlers. Her story highlights the challenges and resilience of Native Americans in the California Intermountain Region.
Read the folktale, then identify the main events at the beginning, middle, and end. Use a 3-5 cell storyboard to illustrate and describe these events, helping students organize the story sequence visually and in their own words.
Literature connections help students visualize, empathize with, and better understand the culture, beliefs, and experiences of First Nations peoples. They make social studies lessons more engaging and relevant through stories and personal perspectives.