RI.8.4 | We Are California

The Modoc War and People Today

HSS 8.8, HSS 8.12, RI.8.2, RI.8.3, RI.8.4, RI.8.6, RI.8.9

This unit focuses on the Modoc War, a conflict between a small number of Modoc people and the US military in 1860’s and 1870’s. The first lesson gives the background information needed to understand the lead-up to the conflict. The second and third lessons focus on different aspects of the conflict, including events and topography. The fourth lesson, the aftermath. A possible extension activity would be a field trip to the Lava Beds National Monument to see the battle sites and gain a deeper understanding of the natural fortifications the Modoc people used to hold off the military.

Creating and Writing Land Acknowledgements

RI.8.4, RI.8.5, W.8.8, HSS 8.8

This lesson asks students to critically analyze and engage with Land Acknowledgements by understanding their connection to ongoing movements for land return and challenging terminologies of western expansion like manifest destiny and “Firsting and Lasting.” Students will explore best practices for writing a land acknowledgement and critical understanding of how word choice and engagement with tribal voices can clarify the role of land acknowledgements personally/ at work/ and with government or other institutions (like school). Students will be asked to interpret words and phrases used in a text including technical, connotative, and figurative meanings and analyze the specific word choice, style, tone, and format used. They will also be asked to compose their own land acknowledgement.

2 Spirit 4 Ever © Andie Martin (Wailaki)

Two Spirit: Understanding and Celebrating Identities

Connecting—Anchor Standard 11, 1.VA:RE7.1, 5.VA:RE7.1, 6.VA:RE7.1, 8.VA:RE7.1, W.8.2, W.8.4, W.8.6, W.8.7, W.8.8, RI.8.1, RI.8.2, RI.8.4, RI.8.6, SL.8.2, WL.CL2.N: Cultural Products, Practices, and Perspectives, WL.CL4.A: Intercultural Influences, 7-8.1.8.G, 7-8.2.2.G, 7-8.4.4.G

This four-lesson unit offers middle school students an opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Two-Spirit identities within Indigenous communities. Students will begin by understanding the distinctions between gender, sex, and sexuality, setting the foundation for a deeper exploration of Two-Spirit identities. Lessons describe the history of Two-Spirit people, highlighting their roles and traditions within Native American and Indigenous cultures, and differentiating these identities from Western LGBTQIA+ concepts. Lessons emphasize the power of visual art in expressing identity. Students will analyze artwork created by Two-Spirit artists, exploring how art serves as a medium for cultural expression, identity affirmation, creating community and belonging. Throughout the unit, students will engage in discussions and activities that foster empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for diverse identities. A key focus of the unit is the Wiyot Tribe's advocacy for Two-Spirit individuals, exemplified through their collaboration with Humboldt County Supervisors to create a Two-Spirit Proclamation. Students will analyze this proclamation, identifying its key elements and reflecting on its significance in raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and combating discrimination. Students will gain insight into the importance of advocacy and community involvement in effecting positive social change. They will have the opportunity to see themselves as advocates and be empowered to draft a Two-Spirit Proclamation of their own. By the end of the unit, students will have a comprehensive understanding of Two-Spirit identities and the importance of recognizing and celebrating these identities within both Indigenous communities and broader society.