Powwow Traditions and Ecological Movement
Grades7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Visual and Performing Arts
What it is
This lesson explores how traditional powwow dance styles mirror the behaviors of animal and plant relatives and serve as living expressions of Tribal sovereignty, cultural survival, and environmental awareness.
Through listening, discussion of creation stories, and trying basic footwork, students examine how the prairies and species like the prairie chicken and butterfly are threatened by a changing climate and how dance connects to reciprocity and stewardship of the land.
Teaching tips
Preparation:
Select audio and video examples of powwow dances that will speak to your students.
Use the story map to learn about the full curriculum and build necessary background knowledge for implementing this lesson.
Climate Change Connections:
Demonstrate the connection between climate change, droughts, and the subsequent impacts on creatures mentioned in the story, such as butterflies and prairie chickens.
Related Resources:
This lesson directly connects climate change and its impacts to the prairie chicken. Use it to solidify the climate change tie-in to this lesson.
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