Rocky Point Elementary Students Participate In Native American Traditions

Each second-grader at Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School in Rocky Point donned Native American headdresses with traditional symbols and feathers to celebrate Thanksgiving. The teachers had the student participate in a realistic powwow to finish out their Thanksgiving unit of study. 

The teachers took the Thanksgiving unit very seriously by creating lessons that incorporated music, physical education, art, and history. Additionally, students learned about Native American culture and how Pilgrims were treated when they first arrived.

During the powwow, the students first listened to the story “Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message,” which discussed the many ways Native Americans traditionally give thanks. 

After singing a “traveling song,” the grade-level then learned about some familiar games that are rooted in Native American culture, including lacrosse and archery, and had the chance to participate in several of the activities. 

Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Kuefner, Syntax.