In history this last week, we learned about the Spanish coming into what is now the Southwest United States and trying to convert the Native Americans to Christianity by building missions. We watched some videos about some Navajo women who have won the Miss Navajo pageant and what is involved in the pageant and what their responsibilities are once they win. We also learned about the French coming to what is now Canada and establishing fur trades. They especially sought after beaver pelts. We specifically read about Samuel de Champlain

Social Studies

• The Spanish coming into the Southwest United States and the building of missions to convert Native Americans to Christianity
• The Navajo women's Miss Navajo pageant and their responsibilities
• The French establishing fur trades in what is now Canada, particularly seeking beaver pelts
• The exploration of Samuel de Champlain in relation to the French in Canada

For continued development, you can encourage the students to engage in role-playing activities where they can act out the scenarios of the Spanish missions or the fur trades. They could also research and present on the impact of these historical events on the Native American and First Nations communities. Visits to local history museums or inviting guest speakers who have knowledge of these topics can provide a more interactive and in-depth understanding of these historical events.

Book Recommendations

• The Legend of the Beaver's Tail: The Story of a Kupuna by Karen Colligan-Taylor: This book tells the story of a grandmother, known as a Kupuna, who shares her cultural knowledge and wisdom with her granddaughter, including the significance of the beaver in their heritage.
• Children of the Longhouse by Joseph Bruchac: This novel revolves around two Mohawk siblings and their experiences during a time of tension and struggle as French and English forces vie for control of their land.
• Discovering Mission San Antonio de Padua: A Kids' Guide by Katherine T. Hein: This book provides a detailed look at the history and significance of one of the Spanish missions, encouraging young readers to explore its impact on Native American communities.