Choose as few or as many content modules as you’d like. We can certainly help you decide which content will work best for your needs or help customize a module for you. Each module is $4 per student, but the price per module decreases as you select more.
Within our Online Learning Marketplace, we have provided a look at how each module aligns with the state standards in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island across several grade levels. Many of our modules may assist with badge requirements for scout groups as well!
Native American Storytelling
Why did Native Peoples tell stories? What were the roles of animals and natural elements, and what types of morals or explanations did stories provide? Oral Tradition was vitally important in Native American culture. In this module we explain why and connect both oral tradition and the morals and lessons of these stories with present day life. The stories available can also connect to lessons such as animal classification or geography and landforms. Concepts such as bullying, cheating, shame, jealousy, anger, forgiveness and self-acceptance are also explored. All videos in this module are told by Native Peoples. After an introduction video, there are seven stories available to view and enjoy, divided into three sections: Creation Stories, Stories with Morals and Stories that Teach.
The Native Kitchen
Examine a day in the life of Native American men, women and children, through the lens of hunting, gathering, agriculture, food preservation and more. How did roles vary by gender? Chef Sherry Pocknett (Mashpee Wampanoag) discusses seasonal eating and introduces us to the “three sisters.” Learn about the seed sovereignty movement and why it is so important to Native Peoples. Discussion or writing prompts accompany this module, as well as an activity about eating seasonally. Ask us about recommended snack options to further complement students’ learning!
A Place Called Home
Where did Native Peoples choose to settle their homes and villages, and why? How were Native dwellings built, and what natural materials were used to construct them? Primitive Technologist Jim Dina examines different types of Native American homes and particularly how Indigenous Peoples lived along waterways in southern New England. This module examines how the environment can impact people’s lives and how this can differ depending on what region you live in. Utilizing the available teaching aids, students can also examine terrain maps and learn about Native American Place-Names.
Time Machine
In this module we explore the question: “how do we know what we know about Native Americans?” How did their lives change over time? What influence did the changing environment around them have on where they lived, their eating habits, clothing and tool creation? Archaeologist Bonnie Plourde examines the rich past of the region, discussing how Native Peoples lived during the Paleo, Archaic and Woodland periods.
Stone Tools
This module is all about natural resources and how Native Americans used them wisely. Examine the stone age with primitive technologist Jim Dina and learn about tool creation over thousands of years. What materials were used from the local environment? After examining natural solutions from the environment, Dina explains the three important skills used in creating stone tools: cutting, tying and drilling. Dina then demonstrates how these skills came together to make hunting equipment.
Beliefs, Misconceptions and Cultural Practices
Native Americans are not extinct! We interviewed several Native Peoples about how they preserve their cultural heritage and what it’s like living as a Native American in present day. In their own words, they provide an overview of how they see the earth and all of its living creatures, discuss symbols, the importance of giving thanks, and much more. Common misconceptions are also explored, most importantly, that Wampum was never considered currency by Native Peoples. This module pairs well with Native American Storytelling.
Nature Walk Through Nowashe
Can’t visit Nowashe Village in person? Take a virtual tour of the trees, the Three Sisters Garden and many varieties of native plants – and how Native Americans utilized them for food, dyes, tool-making and so much more! We also examine non-native plants within the village, and particularly those that are Invasive. This module is coming soon.
Culture Continuation
This future module will explore lasting artistic and cultural traditions from a variety of Native artisans. Currently only one topic is ready at this time as an add-on, for $1 per student: Wampum Craftsmanship.
Modules At a Glance
Module | Featured Educator(s) | Total Run Time (Minutes) | Glossary Included | Discussion or Writing Prompts Included | Activities Included | Craft Add-On Available |
Native American Storytelling | Annawon Weeden, Judith Dreyer, Allen Hazard | 49 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
The Native Kitchen | Chef Sherry Pocknett, Judith Dreyer, Jim Dina | 28 | Yes | Yes | ||
A Place Called Home | Jim Dina | 19 | Yes | Yes | ||
Time Machine | Bonnie Plourde | 26 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Stone Tools | Jim Dina | 50 | Yes | Yes | ||
Nature Walk Through Nowashe | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
Beliefs, Misconceptions and Cultural Practices | Annawon Weeden, Judith Dreyer, Allen Hazard | 23 | Yes | |||
Culture Continuation | Allen Hazard | 15 | Yes | Yes | Yes |