Mrs. Banderas talked to Ms. King's third grade about Native Americans.

November 1, 1999

In third grade Social Studies, students learn about Native Americans. Ms. King's / Mrs. Hafez's third grade class was fortunate to have Mrs. Banderas, Jonathan's mother, come to their classroom and talk about Native Americans.

Mrs. Banderas is half Navajo, and half Sioux. She discussed the differences between the two tribes and answered many questions from the students.

Before Mrs. Banderas came to visit, the students made a list of questions to ask Mrs. Banderas. As she answered the students questions, she showed the students Native American artifacts such as a wedding basket, a blanket, a drum, and jewelry. She talked about the significance of various artistic features in each artifact. The students learned about the Native Americans' respect and appreciation of nature and the land. This respect was echoed in many of the artifacts she showed.

Mrs. Banderas's visit was a terrific opportunity for the students to learn more about the Native American cultures they have been studying. As the students touched and examined the artifacts such as the drum, the blanket, and the jewelry, they gained a unique perspective on history.