Indian Nations of Wisconsin, 2nd Edition Education Materials
Grades 6-12
Multiple class periods
These teaching materials are intended for use with the 2nd edition of Patty Loew's seminal work Indian Nations of Wisconsin. Each chapter is presented through the lens of the "Understanding by Design" lesson plan framework. In addition, these materials have been aligned with both Wisconsin's Social Studies Standards (2019) and the Common Core State Standards for Literacy in All Subjects.
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Objectives
Enduring Understanding
Indigenous nations have long histories with their own cultures, languages, and ways of governing. Despite the many challenges of European arrival, Native nations in Wisconsin have continuously worked to protect and maintain their rights and traditions.
Essential Questions
- How do historians study Indigenous peoples and cultures?
- How did the various Native nations adapt to the arrival Europeans?
- What is sovereignty?
- How do the migration and forced relocation of Native Americans compare to other historic immigration patterns?
Students will:
- Understand how oral history and traditions, field research, and physical objects inform what we know about the past.
- Analyze the impact of different institutions and policies on Native nations.
- Learn about seven Indian nations in Wisconsin, and the distinct bands and people groups within these nations.
Partner Resources
DPI Teaching materials
The Department of Public Instruction (DPI) worked with Indigenous and non-Indigenous teachers to write comprehensive lessons intended for use in Kindergarten through high school focused on the general ideas of tribal sovereignty and tribal government.
Tribal Sovereignty ResourcesIndian Nations of Wisconsin
Educators and students can bring Wisconsin’s Indigenous histories to life by purchasing Indian Nations of Wisconsin. Drawing on oral traditions, stories, treaty records, interviews, and other Native sources, Patty Loew presents the rich histories of the Menominee, Ho-Chunk, Ojibwe, Potawatomi, Oneida, Stockbridge-Munsee, and Brothertown nations. Highlighting both historical events and contemporary initiatives, and illustrated with maps and over 140 photographs, the book pairs seamlessly with our classroom activities, helping students explore the culture, history, and enduring contributions of Wisconsin’s Indigenous communities.
WisHistory Education
History matters! The Wisconsin Historical Society provides field trips, learning opportunities, civics education programs, teacher professional development and more.
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Last Updated: April 15, 2026
