Making wigwams / Activity Analysis

Art

• The child learned about Native American culture and their traditional dwelling by creating a model of a wigwam.
• They practiced fine motor skills while cutting and gluing materials to construct the wigwam.
• They explored different color combinations and patterns while decorating the wigwam.
• They learned about the importance of symmetry by ensuring that both sides of the wigwam were balanced and identical.

English Language Arts

• The child improved their writing skills by creating a short story or description about the wigwam and the Native American culture.
• They practiced using descriptive language to convey the appearance and purpose of the wigwam.
• They learned new vocabulary words related to Native American traditions and construction techniques.
• They engaged in oral storytelling by sharing their written piece with their classmates.

Social Studies

• The child gained knowledge about Native American tribes and their ways of life.
• They learned about the historical significance of wigwams as traditional dwellings for certain Native American tribes.
• They explored the geographical regions where wigwams were commonly found.
• They discussed the importance of respecting and appreciating different cultures and their traditions.

For continued development, encourage the child to research more about different Native American tribes and their unique traditions. They can explore other types of traditional dwellings, such as tipis or longhouses, and compare them to wigwams. Additionally, they can create a diorama or a larger-scale model of a Native American village, including wigwams and other elements of the culture.

Book Recommendations

• Wigwam and the Longhouse by Charlotte Yue and David Yue: This book introduces young readers to different Native American dwellings, including wigwams and longhouses, and explores the daily life of Native American children.
• The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich: This historical fiction novel follows the life of a young Ojibwe girl named Omakayas and her family as they live in a wigwam and navigate the challenges of the 19th century.
• If You Lived With The Iroquois by Ellen Levine: This informative book provides insights into the Iroquois tribe's culture, including their housing, food, clothing, and daily life, which can help children understand the context of wigwams within Native American society.