Kindergarten place-based unit
In the spring, students come together to explore the essential question:"How can we demonstrate respect for nature and property in our daily actions and decisions?" Through a hands-on lesson planting Maria’s Lingít potatoes, students learn the value of stewardship while deepening their respect for the land, themselves, and one another.
LESSON 1
January through February: coordinate with the Cultural Department to schedule the planting field trip with PHS
Read the background information about the cultural significance of the potatoes
Gather the book The Curious Garden by Peter Brown (or another book about taking care of nature)
Prepare a chart titled "Ways to Take Care of Nature".
LESSON 2
Print a copy of Lingít David Kanosh’s story for the teacher read-aloud.
Gather chart paper and markers for recording student responses in a KWL chart.
Arrange a designated discussion space, such as a circle time or group seating area.
Set up a board or poster display to write key ideas and student thoughts.
Provide student journals or reflection sheets for drawing or writing responses.
Gather pencils, crayons, or markers for student activities.
Read and review Mr. Kanosh’s story in advance to guide discussion effectively.
Prepare open-ended discussion questions based on student comprehension levels.
Plan follow-up prompts to encourage deeper thinking without providing direct answers.
LESSON 3
Gather We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
LESSON 4
Gather Potato King by Christoph Niemann (or another gardening-related book) Blank paper or drawing journals, Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
Finalize details of planting potatoes with Cultural Department or PHS
The lesson slides below accompany each lesson within the unit. These can be projected on a screen or printed out.
What Does it Mean to be a Steward?
Lesson Time Frame: 30- 40 min.
Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
Lingít Oral History of L´úx/Mt. Edgecumbe
Lesson Time Frame: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Respect for Nature and Property
Lesson Time Frame: 30-40 min.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Growing Like Gardeners!
Lesson Time Frame: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Contact act@sitkaschools.org to get more information or support