Grade 4

California Missions Through Native American Perspectives Unit

California Missions Through Indigenous Eyes Project-Based Learning Virtual Exhibit Project

HSS 4.2.1, HSS 4.2.5, RI.4.1, RI.4.7, RI.4.9, W.4.2, W.4.7, W.4.8, SL.4.1, SL.4.4, L.4.3

Students: (1) Design a virtual exhibit that explores the history of California missions from the perspective of the Indigenous peoples whose lives were most affected; (2) Reflect on cultural resilience, historical accuracy, and the consequences of colonization; (3) Explore California Indian history and culture before and during the mission period; and (4) Analyze the impact of the missions on Native American communities.

Cultural Preservation Posters

HSS 4.2.1, HSS 4.2.5, RI.4.1, RI.4.7, RI.4.9, W.4.2, W.4.7, W.4.8, SL.4.1, SL.4.4, L.4.3

In this lesson, students: (1) Design a visually appealing and informative poster highlighting the importance of cultural preservation among California Indigenous communities, focusing on traditions, language, art, or practices impacted by the mission system; (2) Reflect on cultural resilience, historical accuracy, and the consequences of colonization; (3) Explore California Indian history and culture before and during the mission period; and (4) Analyze the impact of the missions on Native American communities.

Understanding Cultural Erasure through the Case of Ishi

HSS 4.2.1, HSS 4.3, HSS 4.4.1, RI.4.1, W.4.2, SL.4.1

Students will learn about cultural erasure. 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. This lesson covers the life and history of Ishi, the last Yahi, and how his story reflects the broader experience of Native American communities in California.

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.

Stereotypes and Misrepresentation of Ishi

HSS 3.2, HSS 4.4

Students will understand the concept of stereotypes and their impact on individuals and communities, using Ishi’s story as an example. They will practice avoiding stereotypes in writing by creating a respectful and accurate news article about Ishi’s arrival in Oroville. 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.

Land Acknowledgements Honoring CA Native Land and People Unit 2

Project-Based Learning on Land Acknowledgments

HSS 3.2, HSS 4.1, HSS 5.9, SL.3.1, SL.4.1, SL.5.1, W.4.7, W.5.7

Students will design and complete a project that reflects their learning about land, Indigenous presence, and community responsibility. Students will present their work to an audience, demonstrating respectful engagement, informed research, and a commitment to ongoing learning and allyship.

Moving Beyond Land Acknowledgments

HSS 3.2, HSS 4.1, HSS 5.9, SL.3.1, SL.4.1, SL.5.1, W.4.7, W.5.7

Students will critically evaluate the limitations of land acknowledgments when not paired with action or accountability. Students will explore tangible ways to support Indigenous communities and advocate for justice beyond symbolic statements.

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