HSS 4.2

Ishi: A Story of Dignity, Hope, and Courage Unit - Lessons 7-12

This unit explores the life and legacy of Ishi, the last known member of the Yahi people, as a gateway to understanding Indigenous history, culture, and resilience. Through his story, students investigate the cultural values, survival strategies, and spiritual practices of the Yahi, while critically examining how Ishi has been represented and sometimes misrepresented in history and media. The unit also addresses broader themes of cultural erasure, Indigenous leadership, and the ethical considerations surrounding Ishi’s experiences both in life and after death. By engaging with these topics, students develop empathy and a nuanced appreciation of Indigenous identities, the impact of colonization, and the ongoing efforts toward cultural preservation, repatriation, and justice.

TEK Cultural Burns Save California Salmon © Jackie Fawn

Forest and Fires

HSS 4.1, HSS 4.2, HSS 4.2.1, 4-ESS3-1, RI.4.4, RI.4.7, SL.4.2

This cross curricular lesson introduces students to the differences between wildfires and cultural or controlled fires, grounding their learning in both traditional ecological knowledge and scientific understanding. Designed for 4th grade learners, the lesson uses clear language and high-interest visuals to explain how Indigenous fire practitioners have used fire as a powerful tool to care for their ancestral territory and ecosystems for generations.

The Beauty of Fall, Martin's Ferry Bridge, Yurok Indian Reservation. © Louisa McCovey (Yurok, Hupa, Karuk)

Live in Balance with the Natural World - Take Only What You Need

HSS 4.1, HSS 4.2, HSS 4.2.1, HSS 4.5, HSS 4.5.5, 4-ESS3-1, 4-ESS3-2, RL.4.2, RL.4.3, RL.4.7, SL.4.2, SL.4.6, WL.CM1.N: Interpretive Communication, WL.CL2.N: Cultural Products, Practices, and Perspectives, WL.CL4.A: Intercultural Influences, WL.CN2.N: Diverse Perspectives and Distinctive Viewpoints

This lesson immerses students in the Yurok Tribe's rich cultural heritage and their deep-rooted connection to sustainable environmental practices. It explores the tribe’s traditional beliefs and practices related to natural resource management, focusing on the values of sustainability, community well-being, and ecological balance. Students will learn how the Yurok people prioritize responsible resource use, such as with salmon, Pacific lamprey, elk, and seaweed, ensuring these resources are available for future generations.

The Winnemem Wintu: A Story of Resilience

HSS 4.1, HSS 4.2, HSS 4.3, RI.4.3, W.4.8, SL.4.2, SL.4.3

This unit introduces students to the Winnemem Wintu tribe and homeland and explores the ways in which the arrival of settlers affected the tribe from contact through the post-statehood era. Each lesson could take 1-2 days to complete.

“Qa’-Soy” Published in News from Native California © Elaine Palmer

Qa'-Soy: a Pomo Tale of Traditional Ecological Knowledge

RL.5.1, RL.5.2, SL.5.1, SL.5.2, SL.5.3, W.5.2, W.5.3, W.5.7, RI.5.3, HSS 4.2, HSS 4.3, HSS 4.4

This 3 part unit was written by Pomo educator, weaver and artist, Elaine Quitquit Palmer. A story recollecting a cherished childhood memory, with her father, is the focal point. The story of Qa’-Soy illustrates the passing on of traditional knowledge. Students will read this story and interview an elder in their community. Some students will have a grandparent they can ask about traditions in their family. If a family member is not available, the teacher can help the student identify an appropriate community member the student may interview. “Elders are highly respected in California Native American culture. They remember our history and teach culture, share stories, and pass down traditional knowledge. It is important for the youth today to learn how to respect and communicate with their elders so that they maintain their family histories.” Elaine Quitquit Palmer

Ishi’s Legacy and Repatriation

HSS 4.2, HSS 5.3, W.4.2

Students will learn about the repatriation of Ishi’s remains and its importance to his community. Students will understand the concept of repatriation, sacred traditions, and respect for cultural practices. Students will reflect on Ishi’s legacy and how it influences modern understanding of cultural respect and human rights.This lesson plan helps students critically analyze historical narratives, develop empathy, and practice respectful communication in their writing.

Cultural Practices and Reciprocity

HSS 4.2, SL.4.1

Students will be introduced to the concept of reciprocity and encourage students to reflect on its significance. This lesson plan helps students critically analyze historical narratives, develop empathy, and practice respectful communication in their writing.

Geography and Survival of the Yahi

HSS 4.1, HSS 4.2

Students will analyze the geography of the Yahi homeland and understand how the Yahi people adapted to their environment to survive. They will compare historical resource use with modern practices, fostering connections between past and present.

Exploring Cultural Values Through Ishi’s Story

HSS 3.2, HSS 4.2

Students will analyze the cultural values of courage, generosity, respect, and dignity demonstrated by Ishi. They will reflect on their own values and compare them to Ishi’s, understanding how values shape actions and relationships.

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