Circle of the Forest

2015-2016, Kindergarten

Kicking off with a native story about courage, perseverance, and wisdom, our Kindergarteners immersed themselves in the Seneca culture through the lens of “Circle in the Forest,” a story about a boy who faces his fears in order to be able to hunt with his father. Using this story as well as other guest experts, the class learned about the art of storytelling and its importance to the Seneca culture. Additionally, the class learned about the characters in this story while exploring the jobs they had in the Seneca village and the importance of having gratitude for the Natural World. Exhibition Night showcased their learning through a live performance of “Circle in the Forest,” as well as musical and movement compositions inspired by the the story. Students had the opportunity to be storytellers as they shared other native stories from long ago.

If These Walls Could Talk

2017-2018, Third Grade

What is culture? What is my culture? How does my culture compare to those that thrived on this land long ago? In this expedition, our 3rd graders examined these questions as they investigated the culture of their classroom and the ancient cultures of native North Americans. They read stories that Natives told to describe their world and teach their young about land and natural resources. Students explored the Native American exhibits at the RMSC, built models of Native American dwellings, and learned how to be engaging museum docents. Students created their own artifacts, songs and dances that celebrate the diverse cultures of North America. At Exhibition Night, they served as museum docents in the Native Peoples of the Americas exhibit at the RMSC.

Maps Tell a Story

2017-2018, Fourth Grade

Maps are an important part of our human experience. We can use them to show where we have been and where we want to go. The features of a map let us know what to expect from the places we have never been and how far we will have to travel. In this expedition, our fourth graders explored how maps can tell the story of the people who have lived here before and of the people who live here now. By studying the locations and environments of early Native Americans and European explorers and colonists, the class found points where they intersected. Through multiple perspectives,  the class came to understand the conflict that can arise when two different cultures meet.