Fire, Forests, & Huckleberries

Lesson Plans

Grades3, 4, 5Science

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Provided by Trust for Public Land
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What it is

  • This lesson explores how huckleberries are a vital First Food and sacred to Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.

  • Through a sensory activity, discussion of cultural burning, and a Huckleberry Balance harvesting game, students learn how traditional forest management and harvesting with reciprocity help berry patches thrive for future generations.

Teaching tips

Preparation:

  • Use the story map to learn about the full curriculum and build necessary background knowledge for implementing this lesson.

  • The harvesting game needs to be played in an open space, such as outdoors or in a gym.

Related Resources:

  • Expand on the concept of prescribed burns by showing students this video.

Materials:

  • Balls or crumpled paper

  • Container

  • Art Medium of choice

  • Hula hoop (Optional)

Extensions:

  • Have students demonstrate their understanding of reciprocity by drawing pictures to symbolize it.

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