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Who We Are << Back to main page The table below identifies many of the contributors to the Indigenous Science Initiative to date. However, there were many, many community members who joined gatherings to share their knowledge and critical perspectives and we are indebted to their generosity in helping to develop and grow the Initiative. […]

The Larger Story << Back to main page This work is a part of a larger story The Indigenous Science Initiative work is part of a deep history of Indigenous curriculum. We seek to add to the great history and tradition of Indigenous Science through this work. The work we have learned from, are inspired

Core Values and Processes << Back to main page There are several important processes and concepts that have guided the development of the Indigenous Science Initiative curriculum. Those processes and concepts include Indigenous Genius By Design, Community Led Design, Teachers as Designers, Four Big Ideas, and the long history of many different forms of Indigenous

What is it? The Indigenous Science Initiative is a collaboration between the NACA Inspired Schools Network (NISN) and the Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation (LANL Foundation) with the goal of creating an open-access (freely accessible and online) science curriculum that centers Indigenous perspective and community values while also featuring inquiry learning, culturally sustaining pedagogies, and

Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings Patterns are important in Aboriginal technology, architecture, and artwork. Aboriginal peoples used specific estimating and measuring techniques in daily life. Specific exchange items in traditional Aboriginal cultures had specific values. What strategy would make this(a given situation) as easy as possible? What else could I try? How are cycles mathematical?

Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings What are Meaningful Connections and what are some of my own? How did my ancestors express their “Meaningful Connections” to each other and the earth? How is it done today? How will developing a deeper awareness of myself, my world and my culture empower my artist’s voice? How can my

Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings How does personal wellness weave together physical, intellectual, social/emotional and community components into a balanced pattern of connectedness. How does the K`e’ model provide you another perspective in learning a new concept? How do you take care of your sacred self through the strengthening of your wellness? The four components

Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings What are Meaningful Connections and what are some of my own? What are the characteristics of indigenous heroes? What is the value of studying Native Literature? Do the texts we’ve read this year reflect and/ or shape my identity? How have I grown as a reader and writer over the

To preserve one’s language is to preserve one’s culture and identity. Teaching native language results in higher academic scores in math and reading, more self- esteem/increased self-efficacy, motivation and ethnic pride among students. Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings What are Meaningful Connections and what are some of my own? How did my ancestors express their

Essential Questions & Enduring Understandings What are Meaningful Connections and what are some of my own? How can I use STEAM-H to positively impact and advocate for my community? Why is my relationship with Nature important for my identity and community? What scientific discoveries and technologies provide us the foundation of how living things and