The Story of Sacajawea: Guide to Lewis and Clark (Dell Yearling Biography)
#3 in Usborne famous lives Series
What’s inside...
As a young girl, Sacajawea was separated from her family when she was captured by Minnetaree warriors and became their slave. Later, she was purchased by a French fur trader as his wife. In 1804, at the age of sixteen, Sacajawea met Lewis and Clark. With her infant son on her back, she guided the explorers through the western United States, contributing significantly to America's history.
Discussion points
What challenges did Sacajawea face during her journey with Lewis and Clark, and how did she overcome them?
Why do you think Sacajawea's role was important in the expedition?
How do you think the journey would have been different without Sacajawea?
What qualities do you admire most about Sacajawea, and why?
If you were on an adventure like Sacajawea, what would you take with you and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Sacajawea’s challenges, relate them to obstacles the child may face, emphasizing resilience and problem-solving.
Highlight the significance of teamwork and ask your child about times they had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Encourage your child to think about what qualities they admire in leaders and explorers like Sacajawea.
Use a map to trace the journey that Sacajawea took with Lewis and Clark to make the story more tangible and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Sacajawea, a young Native American woman, demonstrates remarkable resilience and perseverance as she guides Lewis and Clark on their expedition across the unchartered American west.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persisting through challenges and setbacks, applying this resilience to school projects, learning new skills, or dealing with difficult situations in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness and respect
Explanation: Throughout the journey, Sacajawea teaches Lewis and Clark about her Shoshone culture, exemplifying the importance of respecting and honoring different cultural perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore and appreciate diverse cultures in their community, promoting inclusivity and understanding among peers.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: Sacajawea embarks on a daunting journey into unknown territories, facing numerous challenges with courage and determination.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to face new experiences or transitions, such as moving to a new school or trying out for a sports team, with bravery and an open mind.
Example Lesson: The significance of teamwork
Explanation: The success of Lewis and Clark's expedition relied heavily on teamwork, with each member, including Sacajawea, playing a vital role.
Real-World Application: This lesson can translate to the importance of collaboration and contributing to group efforts in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Sacajawea often navigated challenging situations, from language barriers to geographical obstacles, using her keen problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply problem-solving techniques to overcome obstacles in homework, in resolving conflicts with friends, or in planning personal projects.