2.  Why do people communicate?  How do people communicate?  How do audience and purpose determine style?  Is it important to share ideas, questions and emotions?

3.  There were 100’s of thriving unique nations.  Each had/has its own tradition of literature passed down orally.  Families kept the tradition going; ceremonies also provided a forum to retell stories.  List a story that you know that has been handed down orally.

4.  Myth - an anonymous oral story  The myth relies on the supernatural to explain natural phenomenon, human behavior(s), or unexplained happenings.  Myths explain WHY the world is the way it is and helps make sense of the world.  Making sense of the world Making sense of the world

5.  To explain the workings of the natural world  To support and validate social customs  To guide people through the trials of living  To instill a sense of mystery of the universe and attempts to explain that mystery

6.  Creation myth – how human lives came to exist  Origin myths – why phenomena like the stars, moon, and sky came to be  Native American myths often emphasize a strong spiritual bong between the creator, humanity, and the natural world. They believed it the duty of humanity to maintain a balance between these entities.

7.  Humans connection with nature  Conflict between ancient customs and modern life, past, and present  Storytelling is important  Life as a circle  Natural elements (earth, water, wind, fire) are symbols

8.  For Native Americans, myths gave people a sense of order and identity. They gave them a way to explain the unexplainable, heal the sick, and teach lessons.  What myths/oral legends are you familiar with?  What is the value of keeping myths/oral traditions alive today?

9.  Objective: in groups of 4-5, you will study and present a myth. You can read the myth silently or read it aloud.  Each group member is responsible for completing his/her own myth response sheet.  You then must present your myth to the class. You can perform a skit, do an oral reading, create a series of pictures or collages, but find some creative way to present your myth.

10.  The World on the Turtle's Back The World on the Turtle's Back  When Grizzlies Walked Upright/The Navajo Origin Story When Grizzlies Walked Upright/The Navajo Origin Story  Grandmother Spider Steals the Sun Grandmother Spider Steals the Sun  What does the story reveal about the themes of:  The role of women in their society  The role of nature (the earth, animals) in society  The origins of certain culture/customs  The roles and beliefs about the gods/higher power Write a ½ page expanding upon on of these themes by creating an original thesis.

11.  Explain the symbolic significance of The Tree of the Great Peace. Illustrate what you think The Tree of Great Peace looks like in your notes.  Which law do you most agree with? Explain why you agree with it. Cite the text.  Are the Iroquois Constitution and US Constitution similar in any ways? Different?