The First Americans: The Story of Where They Came From and Who They Became
on Goodreads (17)
What’s inside...
Provides a look at the everyday lives of the first settlers in North America, and relates the experiences of the scientists who study the many clues they left behind. The absorbing story of the first people to set foot in North America and the many cultures of their descendants. For thousands of years, nomadic people from East Asia followed caribou walking east. Around 20,000 BCE, they crossed the land bridge into North America. These waves of people are the ancestors to every culture on the continent. Tony Aveni, an expert in the scientific, mathematical, and cultural accomplishments of the first Americans, celebrates the disparate cultures by highlighting one or two from each region of the country: the Taino, the Iroquois, the Adena, the Anasazi, the Kwakiutl, and the Timucua.
Age
9-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What new things did you learn about the first Americans from this book?
How do you think life was different for the first Americans compared to our life today?
Can you imagine what challenges they might have faced and how they overcame them?
Why do you think it's important to learn about the history of the first Americans?
How do you think the first Americans contributed to the history and culture of America?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing something you found interesting about the book to spark your child's interest.
Ask your child to relate experiences of the first Americans to their own life, which enhances empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would have done differently if they were in the shoes of the first Americans.
Use the book’s illustrations to discuss different aspects of the first Americans’ daily life, traditions, and culture.
Praise your child for their thoughts and insights during the discussion, fostering a positive reading and learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural respect and understanding
Explanation: Through detailed accounts of various indigenous tribes, the book provides insights into their unique cultures, values, and histories, promoting respect and appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and respect people from different backgrounds in their own communities, leading to more harmonious interactions at school and in neighborhood settings.
Example Lesson: Historical knowledge
Explanation: The book traces the origins and developments of the first Americans, providing children a thorough understanding of how historical events shape societies.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate the historical narratives to current events, helping them develop a deeper understanding of how past influences the present.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: As the book explores various theories about the peopling of the Americas, it encourages readers to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and consider different viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize these critical thinking skills in academic settings or personal decision-making processes by assessing information before forming opinions.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for archaeology and research
Explanation: Anthony Aveni weaves in how archaeologists and researchers uncover stories of the past, highlighting the importance and excitement of scientific inquiry.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore scientific interests or participate in school projects that involve research and exploration, nurturing a love for learning.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The book discusses how the first Americans interacted with and adapted to their environments, showing the impact of human activity on nature over time.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of environmental conservation and may be encouraged to engage in activities that protect and respect their natural surroundings.