Chapter 6: Contributions of American Indian People

Totem poles are the most important art made by American Indian people.

• Fact

• Opinion

American Indians used materials from their environment to create artwork.

• Fact

• Opinion

Sea lion whiskers were used in some American Indian artwork.

• Fact

• Opinion

American Indian art proved that American Indian people respected nature more than any other culture.

• Fact

• Opinion

American Indian people are the best basket weavers in history.

• Fact

• Opinion

How does this image show the tradition of oral storytelling?

• • It shows many people discussing things around the fire.

• • It shows one person telling a story to others around the fire.

Who is telling the story?

• • The children on the right of the fire.

• • The person placing wood into the fire.

• • The man on the left with his hand out.

How did early American Indian groups pass their history down to future generations?

• • They taught American Indian history in schools.

• • They shared history orally through stories and songs.

• • They published books about American Indian history.

• • They used social media to share their history.

Why did American Indian storytellers share folktales?  (Choose the 2 main reasons)

• • To teach lessons

• • To explain events

• • To scare other tribes

• • To learn a written language

• • To teach children that animals have human characteristics

Why do some American Indian groups hold powwows today?  (Choose 2)

• • To change their art

• • To live on reservations

• • To celebrate their heritage

• • To teach people about their culture