The Choctaw people of Mississippi have a rich history and culture, with many traditions. Among these traditions are basket weaving, beading, dancing, pottery, as well as a unique and beautiful language.
Video courtesy of: Chahta Immi Cultural Center
Basket Weaving
When creating their baskets, the Choctaw people of Mississippi used what could be found in their environment. Natural materials like berries, bark, flowers, and roots were used to dye reeds. Once finished, baskets were used for carrying many things like produce and clothes. Today, these baskets are still used to hold special treasures.
Discussion
K-3rd Grade
- What can you create from your environment?
- How do you use baskets?
4th-6th Grade
- Does your family have any traditions?
- Do you have any old objects in your home?
Vocabulary
K-3rd Grade
- Reed (noun): tall slender grass which grows in marshes
- Dye (verb): to change or add to the color of an object
4th-6th Grade
- Produce (noun): things which are grown in gardens or farms
- Environment (noun): the surroundings and conditions of the place an organism lives
Beading
Beadwork has been an ancient practice of Choctaw people. Beaded sashes are some of the most ancient clothing which remain in use today. These sashes are designed with traditional symbols. Some Choctaw people continue to use beads for clothing and accessories.
Discussion
K-3rd Grade
- Have you ever made anything with beads?
- What makes up your jewelry?
4th-6th Grade
- What materials are used to make the clothes you are wearing?
- Does your family have any traditional clothing?
Vocabulary
K-3rd Grade
- Ancient (adjective): extremely old
4th-6th Grade
- Symbol (noun): something which represents a particular idea
- Design (verb): to plan for a specific purpose
Discussion
K-3rd Grade
- Do you like to dance?
- Can you show me your favorite dance move?
4th-6th Grade
- How do you use dances to celebrate?
- What are certain settings where people dance? Why do people dance in those settings?
Vocabulary
K-3rd Grade
- Traditional (adjective): the usual or older way of doing something in a culture
- Dance (verb): moving to music
4th-6th Grade
- Social (adjective): having to do with people interacting with one another
- Category (noun): a particular selection of a group with similar qualities
