Village Science

Village science / by Alan Dick. Alaska Native knowledge Network, 1997.

Description: This science curriculum was written to inspire rural Alaskans, primarily Alaska Natives, to find science in their local environment. The author lived a subsistence lifestyle in the Alaskan bush for over 30 years and claims that understanding science has often kept him from being stuck out in the woods. Section 1, Skills, Tools, and Craftsmanship, contains seven chapters covering cutting and drying fish; sharpening tools; nails, pegs, and lashings; falling trees and small-scale logging; guns; chainsaw clutch and chain; and ice picks. Section 2, Shelters, covers wood stoves, wall tents, steambaths, insulation and vapor barriers, and gas lamps and stoves. The final section, Ways and Means of Travel, presents 12 chapters that address piloting a boat, boat design, basic concepts of gasoline engines, dog sleds, snowmachine tracks, snowshoes, and winter trails. A notation at the beginning of each chapter explains which academic standards and scientific concepts are addressed. The information is explained as simply as possible and in a way that is relevant to life in the Alaskan bush, often referring to the way the "old timers" used to do things. Each chapter concludes with activities that take students out into the community to seek additional information from local experts and elders. Student questions and math problems are also included. A final section discusses the science concepts found in the book. The accompanying teacher's edition contains tips and hints for activities and answers to the student questions. (TD)