Activity Overview
Students can learn more about how different Native American cultures and traditions developed over thousands of years by studying the geography in which they lived. In this activity, students will choose one Native American Cultural Region to study and create a spider map that describes the location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that uses words and pictures to describe the location, climate, physical features, vegetation and wildlife of the region.
Student Instructions
- Choose a Native American Cultural Region to describe.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Use words and pictures to describe the location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife of the region you chose.
Requirements: Each cell contains a title, picture, and short description. Minimum one cell each for: location, climate, physical features, vegetation and wildlife found in the region.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Students can learn more about how different Native American cultures and traditions developed over thousands of years by studying the geography in which they lived. In this activity, students will choose one Native American Cultural Region to study and create a spider map that describes the location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that uses words and pictures to describe the location, climate, physical features, vegetation and wildlife of the region.
Student Instructions
- Choose a Native American Cultural Region to describe.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Use words and pictures to describe the location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife of the region you chose.
Requirements: Each cell contains a title, picture, and short description. Minimum one cell each for: location, climate, physical features, vegetation and wildlife found in the region.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Geography Study
Plan a scaffolded research process for students
Guide students to break down research into manageable steps. Start by helping them brainstorm questions about their chosen Native American region, gather resources, take organized notes, and summarize their findings before creating their spider maps. This approach builds student confidence and ensures thorough, accurate work.
Model how to find reliable information
Show students where and how to access accurate, age-appropriate resources. Demonstrate searching in library databases, reputable websites, and books, highlighting how to check for trustworthy authors and up-to-date information. This empowers students to conduct independent, credible research.
Teach students to organize facts visually
Help students use graphic organizers, like spider maps, to sort their information. Encourage them to group related facts under headings such as climate, vegetation, and wildlife, using both words and images for clarity. Visual organization supports memory and understanding.
Encourage students to use descriptive language
Prompt students to include vivid, specific details in their descriptions. Challenge them to go beyond basic facts by using adjectives and comparisons that paint a clear picture of each region’s features. This makes their spider maps more engaging and informative.
Review and celebrate completed spider maps
Facilitate a showcase where students share their work with peers. Encourage positive feedback and reflect on what was learned about Native American regions and research skills. Sharing builds pride and reinforces key concepts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Geography Study
What is a spider map for studying Native American cultural regions?
A spider map is a graphic organizer that helps students visually organize information about a Native American cultural region, such as its location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife, using words and pictures.
How do I create a spider map for a Native American cultural region?
To create a spider map, choose a Native American cultural region, then make sections for location, climate, physical features, vegetation, and wildlife. Add a title, picture, and short description for each section to complete your map.
What are the main cultural regions of Native American groups in North America?
The main Native American cultural regions include the Arctic, Subarctic, Northwest Coast, California, Plateau, Great Basin, Southwest, Plains, Northeast Woodlands, and Southeast. Each region has distinct geography and traditions.
Why is geography important in understanding Native American cultures?
Geography shaped Native American cultures by influencing where people lived, how they found food, what homes they built, and the traditions they developed based on their environment and resources.
What should I include in each cell of my spider map for this assignment?
Each cell should have a title, a picture (drawn or found), and a short description about one aspect: location, climate, physical features, vegetation, or wildlife of the chosen region.
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