4-6th Grade: Bountiful Beads

Through stories and art, students will learn about the importance of preserving Native culture and see how families share and pass down traditions. Students will gain an understanding of the ongoing Plains traditions of beadwork and quillwork (decorative arts done with beads and porcupine quills) and the “Give Away” – an honoring celebration. Students will explore the significance of designs and symbols found in Native clothing and better understand the Plains peoples’ long-standing, close connection to their surroundings and natural resources. We will finish class by designing our own clothing, using symbols which are significant in our own lives.