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Parent Interview

Land-Based Storytelling

Unit 1 - Identity and Traditions

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Ask your parent, guardian, or family member:

“Who are your grandparents?”

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Ask your parent, guardian, or family member:

“What did they tell you about the land or water?”

Or

“What story did they tell you about the land or water?”

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“What area does your story take place?”

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“Who are the main characters in the story?

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“When does your story take place?”

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“What is your story? Please use as many details as possible.”

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Does the story have a purpose or meaning? Why is this story important?

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Project Description

The purpose of this project is to show that all cultures have a “story” that has been passed down through generations. It will give students a way to learn about different cultures, backgrounds, and how they can be intertwined.

Once students have completed their writing, they could turn it into a project. This is an opportunity for the students to get creative. For example they could make storyboards or powerpoint presentations with their story including pictures that relate to the story. If their story includes some type of food, they could bring in samples for tasting. They could even act out their story.

The projects could be presented to their peers at school and/or could be incorporated into a multicultural engagement night where students could “show off” their hard work to families, friends, and members of the community.

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About the Authors

Tara Rogers - I am a 5th grade teacher at Numa Elementary School in Churchill County, Nevada. I have lived all over the world and love learning about different cultures and traditions. I feel that learning and teaching each other about different cultures shows different perspectives and experiences that could help bring a peaceful coexistence for all.

Dean Tonenna - A traditional Numu knowledge holder interested in keeping culture and heritage strong and enduring.

Lance West - How mu. Nu Lance West me nanea. Nu cui-ui dicutta agai dicuttano. Nu Schurzwaetu. Nu tunedooedu pooenabe agai dicutta. My name is Lance West, I am Pyramid Lake and Walker River Paiute. I live in Schurz, Nevada on the traditional lands of the Walker River Paiute. I am Schurz Elementary Principal, a K-6 public school, with two decades of experience in the education field. I am also Co-founder and Executive Director of Indigenous Educators Empowerment, a 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on solutions for Indigenous education issues in Nevada.

Kathryn Bervin-Mueller - Director of Learning and Innovation at Churchill County School District and Title VI professional development and implementation. Integrating culture, history, language, experiences, and diverse perspectives adds to the learning experience of all students and staff. I have lived and worked in many parts of the world, and I am excited about new learning opportunities and growth through this project.