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American Indians in North Carolina

Developed by Kathryn Walbert

This course is part of LEARN NC's catalog of online courses for teachers. Please see the current offerings at the bottom of this page for information about when it may next be taught.

About this course

Participants are encouraged to complete the Prior Approval Form and file it with your local school system to ensure your school will award the appropriate CEUs.

Disability Statement

If you have a learning or other disability and you want to request special accommodations to ensure equal access to education through LEARN NC, then please contact your instructor. The information that you provide will be kept confidential.

Teach this course

This course is available to the public schools of North Carolina and may be offered locally or statewide. Learn more

Explore American Indian history in North Carolina from the earliest evidence of human habitation in the state through first contact with Europeans, the Trail of Tears, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, and into the present day.

Students often hold incorrect ideas about Native Americans and, in particular, know very little about the history and culture of American Indians right here in North Carolina. Archaeological finds, creation stories, the writings of early European explorers, government documents and treaties, stories handed down through oral tradition, indigenous crafts, newspaper articles and more will enrich our exploration of key issues in Native American history in North Carolina.

Moreover, thoughtful articles and lively discussions will allow you to address modern issues such as the needs of American Indian students in North Carolina classrooms and present-day controversies such as the use of Indian-themed mascots in school athletic programs.

Syllabus

You can view full the course syllabus here.

Prerequisites

None

Course objectives

As a participant, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Analyze primary sources through engaging, well- designed activities
  • Create a lesson plan you can use in your classroom
  • Receive individualized constructive feedback and answers to content-oriented questions from a well-versed instructor
  • Join other teachers from across the state in lively online discussions that will enhance your exploration of critical issues in American Indian history

Audience

Though the primary audience is social studies and history teachers, teachers of any subject and grade level are encouraged to participate.

Standards Alignment

This course addresses the following North Carolina teacher standards:

  • Standard III: Teachers know the content they teach
    • b. Teachers know the content appropriate to their teaching specialty.
  • Standard IV: Teachers facilitate learning for their students
    • c. Teachers use a variety of instructional methods.
    • e. Teachers help students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Standard V: Teachers reflect on their practice
    • a. Teachers analyze student learning.

Time commitment

5-7 hours per week

Current offerings

Begins June 22.

This course is open for enrollment. Enroll in this course