Lesson Plan

Today’s Native America

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

The 2016-2017 protests over the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) motivated Camille Seaman to create "We Are Still Here," a photo essay featuring portraits of contemporary Native Americans who protested the pipeline. This eight-page packet, designed to accompany the photo essay, includes background information about the pipeline, a lesson plan, discussion questions, writing prompts, and links to resources for those who wish to research the pipeline debate in greater detail. 

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Begin the class by projecting the portraits without captions or commentary and then have groups view the portraits a second time with captions
  • Use the resource during November's Native American Heritage Month
  • For those who wish to expand the investigation of water rights, check out "The Water Lady: A savior among the Navajo" from the CBS Sunday Morning Show 

Classroom Considerations
  • Requires a projection device with internet to show the portraits
  • Groups require devices with internet to access the photos for their research
Pros
  • The portraits may be viewed with or without captions
  • The discussion questions are designed to have learners think critically about the issues involved in the debate and the protests
  • Discussion questions and writing prompts are available in both English and Spanish
Cons
  • None
Common Core