Exploring other Cultures: Indigenous Peoples in the Americas
Paper Bear Projects (Projects can follow on consecutive weeks)
Vocabulary: Symmetry and asymmetry
Materials: Glue, scissors, pencil/markers/colored pencils/crayons
Directions:
- Read: Indigenous Peoples in the Americas bear mythology http://www.native-languages.org/legends-bear.htm Bears are symbols of strength and wisdom to many Indigenous Peoples in the Americas and are often associated with healing and medicine.
- Trace bear template
- Cut bear body
- Fold bear
- This construction paper can be made to stand three-dimensional when he feet are bent glued onto a separate piece of paper.
- Cave, mountain, trees, beehive, stream, blueberry patch or other components can be added to make a Woodlands scene
- Additionally students can make their own animals using this folder paper method
- Read bear mythology and stars http://www.native-languages.org/foxstory.htm
- http://home.comcast.net/~lsmch/starmyths.htm
- Constellation project- students can use white chalk on black paper to make big dipper and create their own origin story for a real or made up constellation
- Why do you think people invented myths?
- What makes a good myth?
- Have students share their own myths reading them aloud and having audience clap for each.