This engaging worksheet introduces students to the life and legacy of Zitkála-Šá, a Yankton Dakota musician, writer, and political activist who dedicated her life to advocating for Native American rights.
The first page chronicles the life of Zitkála-Šá, also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, from the Yankton Indian Reservation in South Dakota. She overcame the challenges of forced assimilation at a missionary boarding school to become a respected author, musician, educator, and political activist.
Flip to the second page for an interactive experience!
Spark curiosity with a delightful word completion game featuring fascinating fun facts about her.
Plus, check your understanding with True/False questions.
The third page includes Zitkála-Šá’s life-themed word search puzzle.
On the fourth page, students will embark on a decoding challenge using the symbol-to-text table provided; they will turn the symbols into letters and unravel Zitkála-Šá’s inspiring quotes.
This activity is perfect for American Indian Heritage Month (November), Native American Heritage Day (the day after Thanksgiving), International Women’s Day, Women’s History Month (March), Women’s Equality Day (August 26th), and English and Social Studies classes.
As educators, it is our responsibility to present a comprehensive history to future generations and emphasize that the world, as it is today, is a product of the works and achievements of both men and women.
Although more than before, the official curriculum still lacks space for women’s history, stories about pioneering women, and their influence on society. Therefore, it is essential to add content about women proactively, give girls role models and examples to identify with and let boys learn that women are equal, valuable, and have contributed to history like men. Education is one of the significant ways to inspire and create a more equal society for us and future generations.
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This post is also available in:
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