There are many books related to Native Americans of the Plateau 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. Using Storyboard That, students can create a plot summary of the book using visuals and descriptions.
The example used is one of the Kaya of the Nez Perce books by Janet Shaw. Written for the American Girl Doll company in collaboration with Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) tribal elders, educators, and historians, the stories aim to be an accurate portrayal of the Nez Perce people and their culture in the 1700s.
Here are some additional examples of literature that relate to the Indigenous People of the Plateau:
Thunder Rolling in the Mountains by Scott O'Dell is a historical fiction novel appropriate for ages 8-12 about Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) and his daughter, Sound of Running Feet. It describes the battles and final surrender of the Nez Perce to the U.S. Army.
A Kid's Guide to Native American History: More than 50 Activities by Yvonne Wakim Dennis is a great book for introducing many different First Nations cultures to students with activities, games and crafts. It talks about every Native American Cultural Region and also includes features on specific people like Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce.
Native American History for Kids: With 21 Activities by Karen Bush Gibson is another comprehensive anthology of Native American history and cultures in all of North American including the Nez Perce and Spokane nations.
Trickster: Native American Tales by Matt Dembicki is a compilation of stories that were contributed by 24 Native American authors and 24 illustrators. They re-tell folk legends from First Nations all over North America.
Turtle Island: The Story of North America's First People by Yellowhorn and Lowinger is a book suitable for Grades 4-7 that includes the vast history of First Nations from all of North America from Canada through Mexico and highlights the fortitude and strength of the Indigenous people.
(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:
Encourage active participation by prompting students to share what they already know or wonder about Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau before and after reading. Interactive discussions help students connect prior knowledge and make the content meaningful.
Bring in photographs, artifacts, or oral histories from Indigenous communities to enrich the learning experience. Primary sources offer authentic perspectives and foster deeper empathy and respect for diverse cultures.
Assign students to small groups to create artwork, skits, or posters inspired by the stories or cultural themes discussed. Collaborative projects reinforce comprehension and celebrate students' unique interpretations.
Research and share information about Indigenous Peoples local to your region and compare their traditions with those of the Plateau. Local connections make learning relevant and foster community awareness.
Ask students to write a short journal entry about what they learned and how it changed their perspective. Reflection helps students internalize new knowledge and builds empathy.
Excellent books for teaching about Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau include Kaya stories from American Girl, Thunder Rolling in the Mountains by Scott O'Dell, A Kid's Guide to Native American History by Yvonne Wakim Dennis, Native American History for Kids by Karen Bush Gibson, Trickster: Native American Tales, and Turtle Island by Yellowhorn & Lowinger. These titles offer a range of reading levels and perspectives.
Use read alouds, novel studies, and storyboard activities with books like Kaya and Thunder Rolling in the Mountains. Encourage students to summarize stories visually and discuss key events and cultural themes to deepen understanding of Nez Perce and Plateau tribes.
Have students read a story, then create a 3-5 cell storyboard showing the main events at the beginning, middle, and end. Use visuals and brief descriptions to help students sequence events and demonstrate comprehension. Tools like Storyboard That can make this easy and engaging.
Using accurate and culturally responsive books ensures students learn respectful, authentic representations of Indigenous Peoples. These books, often created with tribal elders and educators, help dispel stereotypes and foster a deeper understanding of history and culture.
Try read alouds, storyboards, group discussions, and hands-on crafts inspired by books like A Kid's Guide to Native American History. Activities that combine creativity and critical thinking make Native American history memorable and meaningful for students.