CHAPTER 2: The First Americans "Native American Jewelry"

Introduction
Students have read about Native Americans and the rich culture that existed long before the arrival of the Europeans. In this lesson, students will learn about the various functions of wampum beadwork and the craftsmanship required to make it.

Lesson Description
Students will use the information from the Native American Technology and Art Web site to answer questions about wampum jewelry. They will reflect upon the symbolic meaning of the jewelry by describing what their own spiritual totem might look like.

Instructional Objectives
1. Students will understand the significance of jewelry in Native American culture.
2. Students will use their knowledge of Native American beliefs to create a personal totem.

Student Web Activity Answers
1. for group identity, currency, ceremonies, and rites of passage
2. originally used as gift exchange and eventually evolved into formal currency
3. Native Americans valued the earth and believed that its minerals, metals and natural substances possessed special powers.
4. Answers will vary; responses should show an understanding of the subject.

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