Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to the region of the Northwest Coast and its First Nations. Students will preview the terms and definitions and use whole class or small group discussion to demonstrate their understanding of each meaning. Then, they will create a Spider map of 3-8 terms at the teachers discretion.
Vocabulary
Names of some of the First Nations of the Northwest Coast:
- Tlingit
- Haida
- Tsimshian
- Kwakiutl
- Bella Coola (Nuxalk)
- Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka)
- Coast Salish
- Quileute-Chimakum
- Kwalhioqua
- Chinook
- Tillamook
- Yurak
Potlatch: A potlatch is a gift-giving feast practiced by Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of Canada and the United States.
Dip Net: a tool used for fishing; net bags were hung from a pole
Dentalium: a shiny white shell shaped like a tusk that was used as money by the North Coast Native Americans
Plank Houses: long wooden houses, some up to 60 feet long built by the Kwakiutl
Cedar: a type of evergreen tree
Salmon: a large fish with silvery scales that live in the North Pacific and Atlantic oceans
Totem Pole: a wooden pole decorated with carved animals. It was a status symbol of wealth for families.
Ceremony: the way people act during important events/a celebration
Talking Sticks: a stick in which a whale's tail is carved. A sign of a family's strength.
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: To learn the meanings of words relating to our lesson you will preview the vocabulary and create a storyboard that demonstrates your understanding of different words.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create a visualization for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to the region of the Northwest Coast and its First Nations. Students will preview the terms and definitions and use whole class or small group discussion to demonstrate their understanding of each meaning. Then, they will create a Spider map of 3-8 terms at the teachers discretion.
Vocabulary
Names of some of the First Nations of the Northwest Coast:
- Tlingit
- Haida
- Tsimshian
- Kwakiutl
- Bella Coola (Nuxalk)
- Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka)
- Coast Salish
- Quileute-Chimakum
- Kwalhioqua
- Chinook
- Tillamook
- Yurak
Potlatch: A potlatch is a gift-giving feast practiced by Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of Canada and the United States.
Dip Net: a tool used for fishing; net bags were hung from a pole
Dentalium: a shiny white shell shaped like a tusk that was used as money by the North Coast Native Americans
Plank Houses: long wooden houses, some up to 60 feet long built by the Kwakiutl
Cedar: a type of evergreen tree
Salmon: a large fish with silvery scales that live in the North Pacific and Atlantic oceans
Totem Pole: a wooden pole decorated with carved animals. It was a status symbol of wealth for families.
Ceremony: the way people act during important events/a celebration
Talking Sticks: a stick in which a whale's tail is carved. A sign of a family's strength.
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: To learn the meanings of words relating to our lesson you will preview the vocabulary and create a storyboard that demonstrates your understanding of different words.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create a visualization for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Vocabulary Related to the Northwest Coast Region and Its Peoples
How to help students use new vocabulary in real-life classroom discussions
Encourage students to use Northwest Coast vocabulary during class conversations. This builds confidence and helps students internalize new terms by putting them into context with peers.
Model using vocabulary in your own questions and answers
Demonstrate how to naturally include new words when asking or answering questions. Students are more likely to use vocabulary when they see you doing it regularly and purposefully.
Create a vocabulary word wall showcasing terms and student illustrations
Design a dedicated space in your classroom to display key words and student-created visuals. This provides ongoing visual reminders and celebrates students' learning.
Organize quick partner chats using target vocabulary
Pair students for 2-minute conversations where they must use at least one new word in context. These low-pressure chats reinforce understanding and boost oral language skills.
Celebrate vocabulary use with positive feedback and small rewards
Recognize when students use new terms correctly by offering praise, stickers, or points. Positive reinforcement motivates ongoing participation and vocabulary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vocabulary Related to the Northwest Coast Region and Its Peoples
What are some key vocabulary words related to the Northwest Coast First Nations?
Key vocabulary words related to the Northwest Coast First Nations include terms like potlatch, plank houses, totem pole, cedar, salmon, dip net, dentalium, and the names of various First Nations such as Tlingit, Haida, and Kwakiutl. Learning these words helps students understand the region's culture and history.
How can I teach Northwest Coast vocabulary using a storyboard activity?
To teach Northwest Coast vocabulary, have students select key terms, define them, and create visual storyboards illustrating their meanings. This approach supports comprehension and allows students to demonstrate understanding through both words and images.
What is a potlatch and why is it important in Northwest Coast cultures?
A potlatch is a ceremonial gift-giving feast practiced by Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. It is important as a social event that marks significant occasions, displays wealth, and strengthens community bonds.
What are visual vocabulary boards and how do they help students learn?
Visual vocabulary boards are graphic organizers where students define and illustrate key terms. They help students learn by combining text and visuals, making abstract concepts concrete and aiding memory retention.
Which First Nations groups are part of the Northwest Coast region?
First Nations groups of the Northwest Coast region include the Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, Kwakiutl, Bella Coola (Nuxalk), Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka), Coast Salish, Quileute-Chimakum, Kwalhioqua, Chinook, Tillamook, and Yurak.
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