Activity Overview
In this activity students will break down what they have learned about the different environments in North America in a storyboard. They will include the names of the Native American Cultural Regions and briefly describe the environment including physical features and climate. This is a great way to open or end a unit on Native Americans, as it can both introduce the regions and reinforce what students have learned. It also serves as a good reference point for students to ensure they don't get confused!
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 storyboard that includes a picture and brief description of each of the 8 Native American Cultural Regions of North America.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- For each cell list a title and write a 1-3 sentence description for each region.
- Create an illustration that represents each region using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Requirements: Minimum of 8 cells each depicting a different Native American Cultural Region. Label each region, include an appropriate illustration, and short description of the environment.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In this activity students will break down what they have learned about the different environments in North America in a storyboard. They will include the names of the Native American Cultural Regions and briefly describe the environment including physical features and climate. This is a great way to open or end a unit on Native Americans, as it can both introduce the regions and reinforce what students have learned. It also serves as a good reference point for students to ensure they don't get confused!
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 storyboard that includes a picture and brief description of each of the 8 Native American Cultural Regions of North America.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- For each cell list a title and write a 1-3 sentence description for each region.
- Create an illustration that represents each region using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Requirements: Minimum of 8 cells each depicting a different Native American Cultural Region. Label each region, include an appropriate illustration, and short description of the environment.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about First Americans Migration and Regions
How to Guide Students in Researching Cultural Adaptations of Native American Regions
Encourage students to investigate how Native American groups adapted to their environments by assigning each group a region to research. They'll discover how climate and geography shaped daily life, shelter, food, and clothing.
Help Students Find Reliable Research Sources
Direct students to use age-appropriate books, educational websites, and digital encyclopedias. Show them how to check for trustworthy information by looking for author credentials and reputable publishing organizations.
Facilitate Group Collaboration and Note-Taking
Assign roles such as researcher, note-taker, and presenter within student groups. This helps organize information and ensures all voices are heard.
Guide Students to Create Visuals Showing Adaptations
Prompt students to draw or digitally create images of shelters, tools, or clothing suited to each region. Visualizing adaptations deepens understanding and engagement.
Lead a Class Discussion Connecting Environments and Cultures
Host a wrap-up discussion where groups share findings and visuals. Ask guiding questions about how geography influenced traditions and survival strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions about First Americans Migration and Regions
What are the 8 Native American cultural regions of North America?
The 8 Native American cultural regions of North America are the Arctic, Subarctic, Northwest Coast, California, Plateau, Great Basin, Southwest, Plains, and Eastern Woodlands. Each region has unique environments, climates, and resources that influenced Native cultures.
How can students create a storyboard about Native American regions?
To create a storyboard about Native American regions, students should label each cell with a region's name, write a brief 1-3 sentence description of its environment, and illustrate it with relevant scenes and items. This helps visualize physical features and climates.
What physical features and climates are found in different Native American regions?
Different Native American regions feature diverse physical features like forests, plains, deserts, and mountains, and climates ranging from arctic cold to warm and dry. For example, the Arctic is icy and treeless, while the Southwest is hot and arid.
Why is it important for students to learn about Native American cultural regions?
Learning about Native American cultural regions helps students understand how geography and climate shaped the lives, cultures, and adaptations of Indigenous peoples across North America, deepening respect and historical awareness.
What is a quick classroom activity to introduce Native American regions?
A quick classroom activity is to have students create a storyboard with a picture and short description for each Native American region, helping them visualize and remember the key differences between environments.
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