Native American Scientists Lesson Activities

This SET OF 4 ACTIVITIES adds a wider view to your Thanksgiving science lesson, celebrates Native American Heritage Month, and introduces your students to REAL scientists of Indigenous heritage!

Included Resources:

1. Scientific Innovations by Indigenous People Article & Questions
2. Native American Scientists WebQuest
3. Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte, Physician, Biography & Questions
4. John Herrington, Astronaut, Biography & Questions

Individual Descriptions:

Scientific Innovations by Indigenous People Article & Questions: In this activity, students will:

• READ about 10 scientific innovations by people native to the Americas, such as hypodermic syringes, sunglasses, aspirin, and even baby bottles.
• ANSWER text-dependent questions.

Native American Scientists WebQuest: Students use the internet to research 16 scientists. Students find information about:

• Year of birth
• Native affiliation
• Scientific work
• Other interesting facts

Because no specific websites are provided, students use Google or another search engine to find the answers. While this prevents broken links, it also means that this webquest is best suited for groups with a good ability to search the internet independently.

Dr. Susan Picotte Biography & Questions: In this activity, students will:

• READ a biography about “Dr. Susan”, the first Native American to earn a medical degree.
• ANSWER text-dependent reading comprehension questions and learn some Omaha medical terms.

John Herrington Biography & Questions: In this activity, students will:

• READ a biography about John Herrington, the first Native American tribe member in space.
• ANSWER text-dependent reading comprehension questions and learn some Chickasaw terms related to space.

Teacher Notes:

• These resources make great sub plans – no prior knowledge required!
• Answer keys included.
• Please note that this Native American Scientists lesson set is not editable.
• GO PAPERLESS! Use the included digital Google Slides options!
• Check out more resources in the representation in science section of our shop!