ENGAGE
Later in this module we will explore, among other ideas, how seasons are the result of Earth's tilt and orbit around the sun. We will also explore how latitude influences climate and how ocean circulation connects all parts and peoples of the planet.
Returning to our exploration of how everything is connected from an indigenous perspective, it's certainly safe to say that people who live closest to land and/or ocean resources have an especially deep understanding of the seasons and the influence of climate on the resources upon which they depend.
EXPLORE
Teacher's Domain
Let's take a look at two TD videos. Living From the Land and Sea describes just that. As well, we can make connections between western scientific study of ocean temperatures and the ocean food webs that indigenous people have a deep historical knowledge of in the TD video, Warmer Oceans Affect Food Web.
Living From the Land and SeaWarmer Oceans Affect Food WebEXPLAIN
- How are the seasons and latitude connected to climate and the lives of Alaska Natives?
- What is the role of the ocean to climate and the lives of Alaska Natives.
- What cultural resources exist where you are?
- What do long-time residents have to say about climate/ocean dynamics?
- What is the value of Teachers' Domain in providing knowledge from both ways of knowing?
ENGAGE
Career Connections
The earliest encounters between Alaska Natives and Europeans occurred when Russian explorers and fur traders discovered Alaska, along with its abundance of commercially valuable sea otters--and the Unangan people who had discovered Alaska countless generations prior and knew best how to hunt otter.
Apart from the tragic stories of disease and deprivation that followed, comes a story of strength and redemption in the life of Dolly Garza--A Tlingit and Haida Scientist, whose life is dedicated to the study of these cute and voracious otters, along with the preservation of her culture.
EXPLORE
Dolly Garza--A Tlingit and Haida ScientistEXPLAIN
- What connections does Garza make between her studies and importance of her Native culture?
- How does Garza compare western science to Native ways of knowing?
- How might Alaska Native students view modern science in light of Garza's example?
- What is the value of Teachers' Domain in providing knowledge from both ways of knowing?
