Grade 6

2 Spirit 4 Ever © Andie Martin (Wailaki)

Two Spirit: Understanding and Celebrating Identities

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.

Native Foods Unit

Family Recipe

In this lesson, students compare the nutritional qualities of Indigenous and introduced foods, interview a trusted adult about food traditions, and adapt a family recipe to include local Indigenous ingredients. Through these activities, students will deepen their understanding of nutrition, cultural connections to food, and the importance of incorporating healthy, whole foods into their diets.

Native Foods Unit

Native Food Experiences

In this lesson, students will examine Pomo perspectives on traditional Indigenous foods and settler-introduced foods.They will explore cultural norms surrounding food, reflect on the relationship between the environment, food, and community, and consider how food experiences shape identity and culture.

Native Foods Unit

My Native Plate

In this lesson, students learn about their nutritional needs and practice designing healthy meals using Native foods. Students will reflect on the origins of their food, understand the impacts of processed versus Indigenous foods, and explore the importance of diversity in their diets to support personal health and ecosystems.

Native Foods Unit

Native Foods for Today’s World

This lesson introduces students to traditional Native foods of California, exploring their health benefits, cultural significance, and connection to food sovereignty. Students will examine how food practices have evolved due to historical changes and learn how Native communities are revitalizing traditional foodways to promote health, sustainability, and cultural pride.

Native Foods Unit

Traditional Ecological Knowledge Case Study: Fire

This lesson explores the role of fire in maintaining healthy ecosystems through the lens of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK). Students will examine the cultural, ecological, and practical significance of controlled burning as practiced by Native communities, apply these principles to scenarios, and analyze the impact of fire on biodiversity and food webs.

Native Foods Unit

Introduction to Oak Woodlands Ecosystem

This lesson introduces students to the Oak Woodlands ecosystem, an area of cultural and ecological significance for the Pomo people. Students will learn about key species, their roles within the ecosystem, and their importance to Native traditions. Additionally, students will explore the connections between culture, ecosystems, and sustainability through vocabulary activities and food chain exploration.

Native Foods Unit

Pomo Stories: Healthy Ecosystems Feed Healthy Communities

In this lesson, students will explore a Pomo story to understand the importance of oral tradition in teaching lessons about community, respect, and connection to the environment. Through reading and analysis, students will gain insight into Native perspectives on interdependence and stewardship of ecosystems.

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