Teaching with Artifacts:Lesson Ideas - Part II Wondering what an artifact-based lesson might look like? Here is an example using Native American artifacts. The lesson examines the art and culture of Native Americans of the Southwest.The Native American Pipe Bag WHAT YOU WILL NEED:1. Background essay on the Pipe Bag2. Super Zoom Image of the Pipe BagEXERCISE:1. Review the essay on the pipe bag prior to the beginning of the class.2. Project the Spin Set image of the pipe bag. Have students examine the image.In groups, have students describe what they see. Have them record their observations on paper for reporting later to the entire group.3. Have students report their observations. List the characteristics of the artifact as they report. DO NOT ALLOW CONJECTURE CONCERNING USE OF THE OBJECT AT THIS TIME.4. Give the students the dimensions of the pipe bag and have them re-examine the artifact. You may guide them with the following questions:Are both ends of the object the same?Describe the differencesAdd those descriptions to those already on the board5. ASK THE STUDENTS:Who do you think used this item? (What group? Which persons in the group?)What do you think the object is? Record their answers but DO NOT TELL THEM THE ANSWER.6. Point out the major design on the white background. Tell the students that this is a fine example of the "SIOUX FOUR WINDS."Have the students speculate about why the design might be called the "Four Winds."Have the students speculate about what the "Four Winds" might meanDoes knowing the name of the design help with what this might be? What is it?7. Note that one end is highly decorated and that the other is not.ASK: WHY DO YOU SUPPOSE THIS IS MADE THIS WAY?ASK: WHAT DO YOU THINK THIS WAS USED FOR?Answers must be based on analysis not just guessing.TELL THEM THAT THIS IS A PIPE BAG8. Give them a short explanation of the pipe ceremony, pipe, pipe bundle, and keeper of the pipe.NOW ASK:Why do you think the "Four Winds" design is on the pipe bag?ARE THERE OBJECTS IN YOUR LIFE WITH DESIGNS THAT INDICATE WHAT THEY MIGHT BE USED FOR? [Possible Answers: book covers, key rings, and so on.]ARTIFACTS TEACHStart your 30-day free trial. No credit card required. Get Started
