Take your students on an interactive virtual field trip across North America to learn about the diverse Indigenous peoples, cultures, traditions, homes, and communities of 9 geographic regions. This resource is aligned with the Native Knowledge 360 Essential Understandings Framework. It has been carefully designed to help students understand that Native peoples are not simply part of the past. Through interactive Google Slides, your students will explore different regions of North America, visit real-world locations through Google Earth™, watch selected videos, examine historical and cultural images, and reflect on what they have learned.
 
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This resource includes 60+ slides that cover the following 9 regions:
Arctic
Northwest Coast
Plateau
Great Basin
California
Southwest
Great Plains
Northeast
Southeast
 
For each region, your students will learn about topics such as:
Indigenous communities of the region
Geography and environment
Traditional homes and dwellings
Food and natural resources
Society and community structure
Cultural traditions
Art, language, and crafts
Historical experiences
Modern tribal communities
Cultural preservation and revitalization
 
Students will also learn key understandings including:
Culture and culture-bearers
Tribal sovereignty
Native American terminology
The importance of recognizing Indigenous peoples as contemporary communities
 
This Virtual Field Trip Includes:
Informational Text (build background knowledge)
Response Questions (EDITABLE)
Google Earth™ Links to 360-degree views
Video Links
Grading Rubric
Everything is set up in Google Slides & ready to go!
 
How it Works:
These virtual field trips can be conducted teacher-led or shared with students through Google Classroom as an independent assignment. Everything is set up for you. This resource is low prep and would even make great sub plans. Student directions are found within the lesson, and direct links are included to specific Google Earth™ locations and videos. All work is completed digitally. No printing necessary.
 
Structure:
These virtual field trips are structured. This means that the informational text and links are meaningful and are meant to lead students to think critically as they respond to the questions throughout the virtual field trip. This is also a great way to keep students accountable as they learn and explore. All response questions are editable, so you can tailor to your class needs. Students complete this activity in edit mode of Google Slides.
 
Standards Alignment:
Native Knowledge 360 Essential Understandings Framework
Washington State Social Studies Standards
Common Core Informational Text Standards
Can Crosswalk to Many Different Standards
 
Grading Rubric:
A grading rubric is included which assesses: accuracy, thoroughness, validity, and writing conventions. Answers will vary throughout, as students are recording their observations and findings.
 
Technology:
Please note that students will need to access Google Earth™ to take advantage of the 360-degree views of historical sites and reconstructions. Your students will also need access to YouTube to view the video clips. Please ensure your school provides access.