I get to teach around 130 eighth graders on a daily basis in my US History class. They are between ages 13 and 14. They come from many different backgrounds. Our community is enriched by a tremendous variety of cultures, languages, traditions, and beliefs.
One thing my students are always curious about is the truth.
Sometimes seeking that truth can be problematic, difficult or concerning due to the resources that are provided. With regards to uncovering the Indigenous perspectives of US History, my students yearn for this. Each step along the way, my students often ask about Indigenous experience and want to know more. I want to meet their demand and provide them with the truth.
My Project
As a social studies teacher who has the task and gift of teaching American History to teenagers, I believe wholeheartedly that it's my duty to teach the truth. Student textbooks I have encountered often leave out many important people, places, leaders, events, losses, and triumphs of Indigenous People. In fact, many state-provided history textbooks distort, misrepresent, overlook, and lie about Indigenous Peoples' experiences in America. "An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States" by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz is a vital text to expose the truth of Indigenous history. This is a complex book at a high reading level often used in college courses that have been adapted for young readers, relaying the reality of more than 400 years of the legacy of Indigenous Peoples’ resistance, resilience, and steadfast fight against imperialism. This book is the bedrock for learning and studying American history.
I recently discovered that "An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States" has been adapted for young readers which is exciting because now this source can be read, analyzed, and comprehended by students.
I believe this book will have a monumental impact on students because of the perspective, accuracy, insight, and knowledge it contains in the text and activities. This book is essential to learning US History.
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