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Native Americans' Complex Contributions to Military History - American Battlefield Trust
Grades
6 to 12
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The American Battlefield Trust's "Here from the Start: Native Americans' Complex Contributions to Military History" illuminates the deep and multifaceted role Indigenous peoples have...more
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The American Battlefield Trust's "Here from the Start: Native Americans' Complex Contributions to Military History" illuminates the deep and multifaceted role Indigenous peoples have played in shaping early American conflicts, from the colonial wars through the Civil War. Highlighting figures such as Lt. Col. Ely S. Parker and groups like the Cherokee and Navajo code talkers, the resource charts how tribes participated, resisted, and sometimes suffered greatly across pivotal moments in US history. It also emphasizes ongoing preservation efforts at notable sites once inhabited by Native Americans or that witnessed their service in places like Sand Creek, Cabin Creek, Wood Lake, and Chattanooga in partnership with tribal communities.
tag(s): battles (18), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Have students create a map using Google My Maps reviewed here showing locations of key battles or military sites involving Native American tribes, identifying which tribes were involved and their roles in the conflict. Assign students to research key individuals mentioned, such as Lt. Col. Ely S. Parker or the Navajo Code Talkers. Students can present short biographies using Sutori reviewed here explaining their contributions to US military history. Provide students with primary source quotes or documents related to Native American military service and ask them to analyze the perspectives, motivations, and consequences reflected in the text.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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Passover - Everything You Need for Passover with Kids - PJ Library
Grades
K to 12
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PJ Library on Passover is a one-stop shop for Passover resources. The site contains sections titled At a Glance, Downloadables, Activities, Recipes, Audio, and More. The downloadables...more
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PJ Library on Passover is a one-stop shop for Passover resources. The site contains sections titled At a Glance, Downloadables, Activities, Recipes, Audio, and More. The downloadables include a Haggadah Guide, River Ride Printable, Sedar Prep Checklist, and Silly Passover-Themed Mad Libs-Inspired Story Sheets. Some recipes featured are: Build-Your-Own Matzah Ball Soup Bar for Passover, Noodles for Passover? Yes, It's Possible!, What is Charoset and How Do You Make It?, and others. Podcasts and YouTube videos are available in the Audio section. A list of Passover books for children, organized by age range, is featured in the Stories section. Activities and Printables include: Make Your Own Plague Props, Printable Passover Scene, Passover Card Game, and more. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
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In the Classroom
Students can compare and contrast the books' features in the Stories section using Figma, reviewed here. Students can use Book Creator, reviewed here to create a Passover Recipe Book. Finally, students can use Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here to create their own Mad Lib.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Ancient Indus Valley Civilization - Learni
Grades
4 to 8
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Introduce your students to one of the world's most advanced but lesser-known ancient cultures with the video "An Ancient Civilization You Maybe Haven't Heard Of." This engaging YouTube...more
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Introduce your students to one of the world's most advanced but lesser-known ancient cultures with the video "An Ancient Civilization You Maybe Haven't Heard Of." This engaging YouTube video explores the Indus Valley (Harappan) Civilization, covering its geography, innovations, trade, and mysterious writing system. Students will discover fascinating facts such as standardized brick sizes, early sanitation systems, and the mysterious Indus script, which remains undeciphered to this day. The video highlights major cities like Mohenjo-Daro and features intriguing questions about peace, religion, and the civilization's sudden disappearance. It's a captivating way to spark curiosity and deepen historical understanding. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
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In the Classroom
Provide students with a blank map of South Asia, or have them make one on Google My Maps, reviewed here, and have them locate and label the Indus River, Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and modern countries in the region. In small groups, students can create posters highlighting one innovation from the Indus Valley (e.g., flush toilets, standardized bricks, trade seals). Include images, purpose, and how it compares to modern systems. Have students create their own symbolic "script" to write a simple message, then trade with classmates to see if others can decode it, mirroring the challenge of translating the Indus script.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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America's Chinatowns - Google Arts and Culture
Grades
6 to 12
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Explore the history, culture, and communities featured on this page from Google Arts and Culture to take a virtual journey through America's Chinatowns' past, present, and future. Begin...more
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Explore the history, culture, and communities featured on this page from Google Arts and Culture to take a virtual journey through America's Chinatowns' past, present, and future. Begin with stories about preserving Chinatowns, visit ten historic sites across the United States, and then enter the oldest US Chinatown in San Francisco through portrait galleries and exhibitions. Continue your explorations to learn about the culture, art, and music found in Chinatowns.
tag(s): asia (134), china (82), cross cultural understanding (177), cultures (259)
In the Classroom
Explore this site and share highlights with your students, or share the site with students to explore and share items of interest with their peers. Use an online canvas for sticky notes such as Lino reviewed here for students to share information learned and questions for further follow-up. Use MyLens reviewed here to extend learning by creating timelines and mindmaps of the content found on this site. Use Google My Maps reviewed here to create custom maps featuring Chinatowns across the US and adding images and videos from each location.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Images of Empowerment - William/ Flora Hewlett and David/ Lucile Packard Foundation
Grades
6 to 12
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Images of Empowerment is a library of images featuring powerful, positive portrayals of women's work and family life around the world. The images on the site highlight the connection...more
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Images of Empowerment is a library of images featuring powerful, positive portrayals of women's work and family life around the world. The images on the site highlight the connection between women's work, their health, and their ability to care for their families and themselves across countries worldwide. The countries highlighted include: Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Peru, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Thailand, Uganda, and the United States.
tag(s): images (257), photography (131), women (184)
In the Classroom
Students can use the images to create a virtual bulletin board using Padlet, reviewed here to showcase women. Students can compare and contrast images from different countries using Google Drawing, reviewed here. Finally, students can use Visme AI Presentation Creator, reviewed here to create a presentation about women using the images.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today - San Diego2
Grades
4 to 12
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Imagine a world without aspirin, bridges, or syringes--many of these innovations have roots in Indigenous innovation. The article "Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today"...more
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Imagine a world without aspirin, bridges, or syringes--many of these innovations have roots in Indigenous innovation. The article "Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today" from SD2 explores remarkable contributions by Native American communities that have shaped modern life in ways often overlooked. From suspension bridges crafted from woven grass to natural remedies and early contraceptive methods, this resource sheds light on the sophisticated science and practical problem-solving of Native peoples. It's a powerful tool for teachers looking to highlight the lasting impact of Native American innovation in STEM and social studies classrooms.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (87), native americans (130), STEM (333)
In the Classroom
Set up small stations where students explore simplified versions of Native inventions (e.g., bridge-building with string and sticks, examining plant-based remedies). Have them rotate and reflect on how each item serves a purpose today. Have students compare one Native American invention with a similar invention from another culture. Create a Venn diagram using Whimsical Mind Maps, reviewed here and discuss what materials were used, why the invention was needed, and how culture shaped the design. Students choose one invention from the article and create a display poster showing its origin, the problem it solved, and its modern-day equivalent or use.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Native American and Indigenous inventions that changed the world - Vincent Schilling
Grades
4 to 12
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This video offers a captivating exploration of ten Native American inventions that have had a lasting influence on modern life. Narrated with vivid visuals, it frames Indigenous innovation...more
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This video offers a captivating exploration of ten Native American inventions that have had a lasting influence on modern life. Narrated with vivid visuals, it frames Indigenous innovation as far-reaching and profound, starting with how early Europeans reacted to these contributions in the 1500s. Viewers learn how traditional inventions, from medicinal remedies and simple mechanical tools to communal sports and practical everyday items, trace their origins to Native American ingenuity, challenging outdated myths about where creativity and technology come from. Please note: If your district blocks access to YouTube, the video will not be viewable. You may need to find an alternative platform or secure administrative permission for students to view it.
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tag(s): inventors and inventions (87), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Have students create a visual timeline using Sutori, reviewed here showcasing each of the ten inventions featured in the video, including the Indigenous group it originated from and its modern counterpart. In small groups, have students select one invention (e.g., syringes, lacrosse, hammocks) and create posters comparing its original form to how it is used today, including function, materials, and impact. Inspired by Indigenous creativity, challenge students to invent a new tool or concept that solves a modern problem.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Contributions of Native Americans - Indigenous Achievements That Shaped Today - Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Center
Grades
4 to 12
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This lesson-ready video offers a compelling overview of Native American inventions and cultural contributions that continue to influence modern society. Through engaging visuals and...more
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This lesson-ready video offers a compelling overview of Native American inventions and cultural contributions that continue to influence modern society. Through engaging visuals and narration, students gain insight into how innovations, ranging from medicine to everyday technologies, shaped both Indigenous communities and later generations. Please note that if your district blocks access to YouTube, the video will not be viewable, and an alternative platform or workaround may be needed.
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tag(s): cultures (259), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Create cards with Native American inventions on one set and their modern uses on another. Have students match them and explain how the original idea is still relevant today. Ask students to write a creative first-person journal from the perspective of a Native American who developed an innovation, describing the problem they solved and how others reacted. Have students compare Native American contributions to similar innovations from other cultures, discussing how different societies solve similar problems. Create a Venn diagram with Canva's Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Revolutionary Native American Inventions That Changed Modern Life - Bryan University
Grades
4 to 12
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Ever wonder how everyday objects -- like kayaks, pain relievers, or snow goggles -- trace their roots back thousands of years to ingenuity developed long before modern science? The...more
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Ever wonder how everyday objects -- like kayaks, pain relievers, or snow goggles -- trace their roots back thousands of years to ingenuity developed long before modern science? The article from Bryan University highlights ten revolutionary Native American inventions that continue to impact modern life, offering an engaging way to explore Indigenous contributions during Native American Heritage Month or as part of a broader history or science unit. Featured innovations include natural pain relievers made from willow bark, early oral contraceptives using traditional plants, syringes crafted from bird bones and animal bladders, baby feeding tools made from natural materials, homemade sunscreens, snow goggles carved from bone or wood, the kayak, lacrosse (originating as stickball), hammocks developed by the Taino, and suspension bridges woven from grasses by the Inca. The article encourages educators to recognize the ingenuity and lasting influence of Native American cultures and can serve as a strong starting point for student research or classroom discussions on innovation and cultural legacy.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (87), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Challenge students to design a modern tool inspired by an invention (such as a water-resistant pouch based on early feeding devices or a sun visor inspired by snow goggles). They can build prototypes using simple materials. Create a classroom timeline using Timeline Infographics, reviewed here showing when and where each invention originated. Include maps and note which Indigenous group developed each innovation. Have students compare each Native American invention with its modern equivalent. For example, compare early syringes with today's medical tools or traditional kayaks with modern sports models.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Native American Contributions - Virginia Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts
Grades
3 to 8
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The PDF "Native American Contributions" showcases a wide range of ways Indigenous peoples have shaped modern American life, from ecological stewardship and sustainable hunting and living...more
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The PDF "Native American Contributions" showcases a wide range of ways Indigenous peoples have shaped modern American life, from ecological stewardship and sustainable hunting and living in harmony with nature to cultivating essential foods like corn, beans, potatoes, pumpkins, squash, and sunflowers long before European arrival. It highlights how Native American games, such as canoeing, lacrosse, snowshoeing, and tug-of-war, remain popular today. The PDF notes that early U.S. ideas about federal and state governance drew inspiration from the Iroquois Confederacy. The document also lists many everyday words, such as barbecue, hammock, toboggan, and hurricane, all of which originated from Native languages. Overall, the PDF provides a positive, accessible overview that helps educators introduce Indigenous contributions to agriculture, language, government, and recreation. If sharing this with students, be sure to include attribution to the Virginia Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts, as the printed document doesn't include that information.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (87), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Create cards featuring items or ideas listed in the PDF (e.g., corn, hammock, tug of war, Iroquois government). Assign students to sort items into categories such as food, games, language, and government. Have students select a word from the PDF (such as "barbecue" or "hurricane") and research its Native American language root and meaning. They can illustrate the word and present a "word card" to the class with its origin, meaning, and modern usage. In small groups, students design a mini-exhibit using a poster board or a digital tool like Canva Edu reviewed here highlighting different categories of Native contributions.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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National American Indian Heritage Month - Library of Congress
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6 to 12
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The Library of Congress's "History and Overview" guide offers educators a well-researched summary of the origins and evolution of what is now known as National American Indian Heritage...more
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The Library of Congress's "History and Overview" guide offers educators a well-researched summary of the origins and evolution of what is now known as National American Indian Heritage Month. It traces the observance's transformation from a week-long recognition in 1986 to its official designation as a month in November 1990, following congressional legislation and presidential proclamations. This resource outlines the legal acts, executive proclamations, and changes in terminology from "American Indian Heritage Month" to "Native American Heritage Month" that reflect ongoing legislative and cultural developments in honoring Native peoples.
tag(s): native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Using links in the Library of Congress guide or other primary sources from LOC.gov, assign students to locate and summarize one presidential proclamation or congressional resolution related to Native American Heritage Month. Students create a digital poster using DesignCap Poster Creator, reviewed here or a paper poster that honors Native American Heritage Month, incorporating quotes from proclamations, historical facts from the site, and symbolic imagery. These can be displayed around the school or shared in a class gallery walk. Have students create a timeline using Canva's Timeline Infographic Templates, reviewed here or MyLens, reviewed here showing key milestones from the website, such as legislative acts, presidential proclamations, and name changes (e.g., from "American Indian Week" to "Native American Heritage Month").Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Native American Inventions Commonly Used Today - History Education
Grades
4 to 12
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Innovations ranging from durable kayaks and snow goggles to natural medicines and staple crops demonstrate the advanced engineering, medical knowledge, and agricultural practices developed...more
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Innovations ranging from durable kayaks and snow goggles to natural medicines and staple crops demonstrate the advanced engineering, medical knowledge, and agricultural practices developed by diverse Native American tribal nations long before European contact. The article from History Education highlights how these inventions supported survival and daily life across varied environments from Arctic regions to South America and influenced broader global practices. Updated as recently as November 2025, the piece offers educators a rich resource to broaden students' understanding of Indigenous contributions to technology and society.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (87), native americans (130)
In the Classroom
Create cards with the name of an Indigenous invention on one set and its use or purpose on the other. Then, have students work in pairs or small groups to match the items, and then discuss how each invention addressed specific environmental or cultural needs. Have students create a visual timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here showing the development of Indigenous inventions, including their original purposes and any modern equivalents (e.g., kayaks, syringes, baby bottles, snow goggles). Challenge students to redesign a Native American invention using both traditional and modern materials. They can present their designs through drawings, models, or digital presentations using Delightex, reviewed here, explaining the science or engineering behind them.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Hispanic American/Latino American History - National Park Service
Grades
6 to 12
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Bring Hispanic and Latino American history to life with the National Park Service's "Hispanic American/Latino American History (Teaching with Historic Places)" portal, a vibrant collection...more
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Bring Hispanic and Latino American history to life with the National Park Service's "Hispanic American/Latino American History (Teaching with Historic Places)" portal, a vibrant collection of place-based educational tools designed to engage students in history, social studies, geography, and civics through real-world sites. Teachers will discover featured resources like Spanish Treasure Fleets, which explores Spain's New World empire and its quest for precious metals; Castolon - A Meeting Place of Two Cultures, a rich case study of Spanish and Anglo influence along the Rio Grande; and the Curiosity Kit on Nina Otero Warren, offering an in-depth look at the life of this suffragist and educator. More than just lesson plans, the site connects classroom learning to historic places on the National Register.
tag(s): cultures (259), hispanic (53), world war 2 (166)
In the Classroom
Have students locate and mark historic Latino heritage sites mentioned in the lessons (like Castolon or El Camino Real) on a digital map using Google My Maps, reviewed here or a printed map. Include brief annotations describing each site's historical significance. Assign students to investigate if their community has historic places tied to Hispanic or Latino history. They can write a short report or create a digital presentation using Genially, reviewed here proposing why it should be recognized or preserved. Have students research a local or historical Latino figure and design a mural that honors their impact. They should include a written statement to explain imagery and symbolism in their work.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Swoop, Lift & Leap to the Lore - The Kennedy Center
Grades
6 to 8
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The Kennedy Center's "Swoop, Lift & Leap to the Lore" resource invites students to choreograph movements inspired by poetry written by Indigenous and Native Peoples of North America....more
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The Kennedy Center's "Swoop, Lift & Leap to the Lore" resource invites students to choreograph movements inspired by poetry written by Indigenous and Native Peoples of North America. It encourages cultural appreciation, creative expression, and kinesthetic learning. The site includes videos and detailed lesson plans to guide instruction; however, if your district blocks YouTube, the videos will not be viewable.
tag(s): cultures (259), dance (41), native americans (130), poetry (191)
In the Classroom
Read a short poem aloud and have students respond with spontaneous gestures that reflect keywords or emotions to introduce the concept of expressing language through movement. In small groups, have students select a poem by an Indigenous author and choreograph a short movement piece that conveys its imagery, rhythm, and meaning, following the lesson plan. Host a classroom performance day where students share their choreography and give constructive feedback based on interpretation, creativity, and cultural respect.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Pacifico Dance Company: On Stage at the Kennedy Center - The Kennedy Center
Grades
3 to 8
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This Kennedy Center multimedia feature introduces the Pacifico Dance Company, a Mexican Folklorico group celebrating regional dance traditions through vibrant performances and classroom...more
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This Kennedy Center multimedia feature introduces the Pacifico Dance Company, a Mexican Folklorico group celebrating regional dance traditions through vibrant performances and classroom explorations. It showcases a short documentary clip that highlights the dancers' costumes, choreography, and musical accompaniment while providing context on the company's cultural mission. Educators gain access to discussion prompts, guided viewing questions, and suggested activities designed to deepen student understanding of movement, identity, and cultural storytelling. These resources help students understand how dance shows the unique traditions of different regions in Mexico. They can also look at the meaning behind costumes and dance styles and try some of the movements themselves to connect with Mexican culture. The lesson includes videos, questions, and fun activities that support learning in both art and social studies. If your school district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
Watch the performance clip and discuss the costumes, music, and dance movements. Use the provided viewing questions to guide student observations and spark conversation about cultural expression. Students can label the map and add notes or images about the styles. Students can label a map of Mexico in Google My Maps, reviewed here and add notes or images about the styles. Using simple steps, music, and props (like scarves or ribbons), have students work in groups to choreograph and perform a short Folklorico-inspired dance that celebrates a tradition or value.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Dancing Bachata - The Kennedy Center
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3 to 8
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"Dancing Bachata with Andre Avila" from the Kennedy Center is a short, engaging video lesson that introduces students to the basics of bachata, a social dance originating from the Dominican...more
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"Dancing Bachata with Andre Avila" from the Kennedy Center is a short, engaging video lesson that introduces students to the basics of bachata, a social dance originating from the Dominican Republic. Led by teaching artist Andre Avila of ComMotion, the lesson provides clear demonstrations and encourages students to move, practice rhythm, and explore cultural expression through dance. Ideal for elementary and middle school classrooms, this activity supports physical coordination, cultural awareness, and social interaction. Teachers can use the video to warm up students, enhance lessons on world cultures, or support the integration of physical education and music. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
Let students choreograph a short 4-8 count routine using bachata steps. They can perform in groups and explain their creative choices, connecting movement to music and emotion. Introduce traditional bachata music and have students clap or play percussion instruments to follow the rhythm. Compare it to other Latin music styles such as salsa or merengue. Have students watch the video and mirror Andre's bachata steps. Then, practice individually and in pairs, building confidence through repetition and rhythm games.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Latin America - The Kennedy Center
Grades
K to 12
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The Kennedy Center's "Latin America" collection is your passport to exploring the rich and diverse artistic traditions of Spanish-speaking countries. From vibrant dance and music to...more
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The Kennedy Center's "Latin America" collection is your passport to exploring the rich and diverse artistic traditions of Spanish-speaking countries. From vibrant dance and music to puppetry and visual arts, it celebrates the creativity and heritage of Ecuador, Cuba, Bolivia, El Salvador, Spain, Venezuela, and beyond. This educator-focused collection offers ready-to-use, cross-curricular lessons and hands-on activities suitable for grades K-12. You'll find engaging units, such as K-2 puppet-making, middle school cultural explorations, and high school dance projects--each designed to deepen students' understanding of Latin American arts while strengthening connections to history, language, and identity. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): crafts (93), cultures (259), dance (41), holidays (246)
In the Classroom
Inspired by El Salvador's traditions, students can create simple puppets and act out folktales or original stories, combining art, storytelling, and culture. Watch videos of Bolivian folk dances and discuss the significance of the costumes and movements. Students can then design their own cultural costumes or masks using paper and craft supplies. Introduce students to instruments like the cuatro and maracas. Have them create their own rhythm patterns with classroom percussion instruments and learn a traditional song.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Five(ish) Minute Dance Lessons: Latin Dance - The Kennedy Center
Grades
3 to 8
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Get ready to move! The Kennedy Center's "Five(ish) Minute Dance Lessons: Latin Dance" invites students to step into the vibrant rhythms of Latin dance, no experience required! In quick,...more
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Get ready to move! The Kennedy Center's "Five(ish) Minute Dance Lessons: Latin Dance" invites students to step into the vibrant rhythms of Latin dance, no experience required! In quick, engaging segments, instructors Ricardo Loaiza and Elba Garcia guide learners through the basics of Salsa, Merengue, and Cha-Cha-Cha, making it easy to pick up and share in the joy of dance. In just a few minutes per routine, these videos offer clear demonstrations, lively instruction, and a fun way to connect with cultural expression and movement. Ideal for classroom use, they encourage interaction, physical activity, and an appreciation of Latin dance, all wrapped into small, accessible lessons. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
After each lesson, have students write or draw in a dance journal. They can reflect on how the dance made them feel, list new vocabulary (e.g., basic steps or Spanish terms), and sketch the dance moves. The journals can be created digitally using Book Creator, reviewed here. Watch videos from different Latin dance styles (Salsa, Cha-Cha-Cha, Merengue) and create a Venn diagram using Canva's Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here or a chart to compare their rhythms, origins, and movement styles. Once students are familiar with a few styles, encourage them to choreograph their own short Latin dance routine using the steps they've learned.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Flamenco - The Kennedy Center
Grades
3 to 8
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Imagine your students feeling the powerful stomp of heels and the hand claps marking a heartbeat- they're not just dancing; they're speaking a cultural language. Flamenco with Alice...more
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Imagine your students feeling the powerful stomp of heels and the hand claps marking a heartbeat- they're not just dancing; they're speaking a cultural language. Flamenco with Alice Blumenfeld from the Kennedy Center invites learners to dive into Spain's rich folkloric tradition through core rhythmic patterns and percussive moves guided by an expert teaching artist. This short, dynamic video activity showcases Alice Blumenfeld, a renowned flamenco artist and educator, demonstrating essential flamenco techniques, including palmas (hand claps), zapateado (footwork), and expressive posture. Ideal for integration into music, dance, social studies, or cultural arts units, the video offers kinesthetic learners an engaging, multisensory learning experience. It emphasizes flamenco's cultural roots as a hybrid art form shaped by history and personal storytelling. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
Play the Kennedy Center video and have students imitate Alice Blumenfeld's flamenco movements -- clapping (palmas), footwork (zapateado), and posture. Pause frequently to review and practice each part. Explore the roots of flamenco in Spain and its influences from Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Andalusian traditions. Have students create an infographic using Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here or a cultural heritage poster explaining flamenco's origins. Since flamenco expresses deep emotion (duende), have students write a short poem inspired by its movement and mood. Encourage them to present it alongside simple claps or foot taps for dramatic effect.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Dancing Bachata - The Kennedy Center
Grades
3 to 8
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Have you ever imagined your students exchanging traditional worksheets for lively dance steps? "Dancing Bachata with Andre Avila" brings that exact energy to the classroom, inviting...more
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Have you ever imagined your students exchanging traditional worksheets for lively dance steps? "Dancing Bachata with Andre Avila" brings that exact energy to the classroom, inviting learners to connect with culture, rhythm, and movement in a fun and educational way. This interactive activity features Andre Avila, a Kennedy Center teaching artist from the ComMotion dance program, demonstrating the basic steps of Bachata, a social partner dance originating in the Dominican Republic. It's presented as a short video tutorial, ideal for students to follow along and experience foundational Bachata footwork and rhythm. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
Watch the Kennedy Center video as a class and follow along with the steps. Allow students to practice in pairs or small groups to build confidence and develop a sense of rhythm. Have students build on the basic steps by choreographing their own short Bachata sequence. They can present it to the class, integrating counts and movement patterns. Introduce traditional Bachata music and analyze its instruments and rhythms. Students can clap, tap, or use classroom percussion to replicate the beats.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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