Native American Studies, Cambodian American Studies, Hmong History and Cultural Studies, and Vietnamese American Experiences Model Curricula for K-12 Schools
Native American Studies Model Curriculum Grade 8 Introduction
The 8th grade Native American Studies curriculum provides a vital opportunity to expand and correct how students learn about the structure and function of the U.S. government. While traditional instruction often omits the unique and foundational relationships between Native Nations and the United States, this curriculum centers the fact that Tribes are sovereign nations—with inherent rights to self-governance. These lessons ensure that students understand how federal systems of government have impacted, and continue to , the lives and sovereignty of Native peoples.
Aligned with the 8th grade History–Social Science Standards, the curriculum explores topics such as Tribal government and civics, Native sovereignty, and a chronology of significant federal policies and laws that have impacted Tribes. Students will critically examine the U.S. Constitution in the context of Indian Country, uncovering how treaty law, trust responsibility, and federal Indian policy intersect with constitutional principles.
In addition to government and policy, students are invited to understand the full spectrum of Native identity—including lessons on Two Spirit people and the cultural and personal significance of coming-of-age practices in Tribal communities. Other themes include Native Food Sovereignty and the California Genocide of Indigenous Peoples—topics approached with care, historical accuracy, and the centralization of Indigenous voices and sources.
Each lesson is approximately 45–60 minutes and supports cross-curricular integration with English Language Arts, History Social Studies, and Social Emotional Literacy. Lessons are available in three formats: full Units (more than five lessons, marked with an asterisk), Mini-Units (two to five lessons), and Single Lessons that can be used independently. Whether taught sequentially or flexibly integrated into an existing course, the curriculum provides students with opportunities to engage deeply with Native perspectives, histories, and contemporary realities.
Throughout, students are encouraged to think critically, reflect on complex systems of governance and identity, and build a more accurate and respectful understanding of the past and present. The curriculum also invites them to consider the role of sovereignty, resistance, and cultural continuity in shaping the experiences of Native Nations today.
We encourage educators to explore beyond their assigned grade level. Many lessons are adaptable and offer valuable opportunities to expand regional representation and engage with Tribal voices from across California and beyond.
We invite you to begin your learning journey by watching two videos, Native California History, a profound truth-telling video featuring Guiding Leaders of the Native American Studies Model Curriculum and We Are Still Here, a powerful video uplifting Native youth voices, produced by Wiyot filmmaker Michelle Hernandez and Richie Wenzler.
