Investigating a Tsimshian Northwest Coast Plank House teaches students about the rich history and significance of a Tsimshian Plank House through oral histories, historic photographs, and archaeological research.
Instructions for the Teacher:
The teacher’s document is 29 pages, consisting of background information and four sections corresponding with the student notebook. It includes details about the environment on Alaska’s northwest coast and the shelter used by the Tsimshian and Tlingit communities. Quadrant maps from the archaeological site of a Tsimshian Plank House are provided for students.
Student Archaeology Notebook:
The student notebook is 27 pages of articles and activities about a Tsimshian Plank House site. Mr. Wayne Ryan, a Tsimshian Elder guides students through the investigation. Through archaeology students discover artifacts left behind and how the interpretations of archaeological sites can be meaningful for descendant communities and visitors.
