Building Native American Schema

Ideally, schema--or background knowledge on a particular topic--is built authentically with hands-on experiences, experts, "lecturers" with first-hand experience, and primary resources heading up the list.  (Notice the Oxford comma--before the "and".  I'm trying it out--not usually a fan.)

We had the awesome experience of having a Native American visit K-3rd grades.  His approach was simplistic but I appreciated his clarity and age-appropriateness in explanations.  (Though we didn't necessarily appreciate his response in it's entirety when he was asked by a third grader: "How do Native American's have babies?"  He coolly replied, "Good question.  Ask your teachers or your parents."  Yeah...leave me outta this!=o) )

He introduced new vocabulary--clothing & regalia as he tried things on, musical instruments as he played them, and dances as he demonstrated them.  He had kiddos come up and dance with him at one point.  As you can imagine, the kids soaked it up and loved every moment.

It's rare to have a presenter so in charge of the audience, and in positive, motivating ways.  (We teachers didn't have to keep a thumb on misbehaviors--an assembly rarity!) He did a fabulous job.  I'm posting his picture and video here with permission (Lest you think we look like this on a daily basis, excuse the dos...it was crazy hair day!):