More Than Words: Storytelling as a Primary Source

Reading: Winter Counts

Created by Field Museum

Winter counts are just one way that some Native American communities document and pass on knowledge of important events. Historically, scenes from good hunting seasons, social gatherings, and battles to protect their homelands were represented in these counts. Today, Native American artists from a variety of communities continue to use drawings, paintings, and pictures to document and pass on knowledge. 1.) Observe the entire 1900's animal skin tipi liner. 2.) Use GREEN to circle the first observation that caught your eye. 3.) Use YELLOW to circle anything that surprised you. 4.) Use BLUE to circle your favorite section. Also create a list of everything you observe (colors, actors, actions, items, etc). 5.) Create a text box for any questions you have after observing the tipi liner. What can you do next to find the answers to these questions? 6.) Lastly, based on the image and "object info" provided, is this a primary source?

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