Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will learn about the history of California Native Americans through engaging art activities.

Materials and Prep

Materials needed: paper, colored pencils, markers, crayons, and access to information about California Native Americans.

Prep: Familiarize yourself with the different tribes of California Native Americans.

Activities

Create a Native American headdress using paper and colorful art supplies.

Draw a picture of a traditional Native American village and label the important structures.

Research and draw symbols that were important to a specific California Native American tribe.

Talking Points

• California Native Americans were the first people to live in California. They had different tribes, like the Chumash and the Ohlone.
• Say: "Native Americans lived in harmony with nature and respected the land they lived on."
• Native Americans used symbols to tell stories and express their beliefs.
• Say: "Symbols were like a special language that helped them communicate important ideas."
• Each tribe had its own customs, traditions, and ways of life.
• Say: "Just like how every family is unique, each Native American tribe was unique too."
• Native Americans created beautiful art, like intricate basket weaving and colorful pottery.
• Say: "Art was an important way for Native Americans to express themselves and their culture."