LIVING OBJECTS

According to many Native beliefs, the objects in the exhibits and collections are alive. A mask, a ceramic bowl, a jade pendant – each has a spirit and a story that is forever part of the object. To help understand this, think of something your family has, a bowl or a piece of jewelry from your grandmother. From this Native view your grandmother’s bowl is not just a bowl, but it has the spirit of your grandmother it holds her story.

Lesson Objective

• To explore the philosophies of Native peoples.

• To learn how the examination of objects can aid the exploration of the culture.

Time Required

• Two 30-minute class periods

Materials Required

• Copies of a Be a Student Researcher

Lesson Outline

• Begin by asking students: What is an object? (e.g., desk, book, paper).

• Now choose a personal object from a student (e.g., a book bag). Show the item to students and ask them what it is. Answers will likely be the item itself. Now tell students that, from a Native perspective, this object is not just a [book bag], but [say student’s name]. Because it belongs to [student’s name], it represents him or her and has a unique personal story. Because of this story or history, the object is “alive,” and should be treated with respect and care.

• Share with students the Background information on this page. Do they understand how objects can be considered living?

• Distribute copies of the Be a Student Researcher reproducible and follow the directions.

• When finished, students can make oral presentations on the object in class.

Lesson Extension

• Performance is another way that the spirit of Native cultures is kept alive. One example of Native performance is a pow wow. Ask students to research examples of pow wows and report how these celebrations express the stories and spirit of Native peoples.