| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Literature |
| What age group | Year or Grade 11 |
| What topic | The way to Rainy Mountain |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
To explore the themes and narrative techniques in N. Scott Momaday's "The Way to Rainy Mountain" and understand its significance within Native American literature.
Opening Activity: The Memory Map
Setting the Scene
Begin by dimming the lights and playing soft ambient music that evokes nature — perhaps sounds of wind, birds, and water cascading down a mountain. This will help to create a reflective atmosphere, inviting students to think deeply about personal connections to nature and memory.
Creating a Memory Map
Provide each student with a piece of blank paper and a set of colored markers. Ask them to close their eyes and visualize a significant place from their past that holds personal meaning — it could be a favorite childhood spot, a location tied to memorable experiences, or a place of cultural importance.
Drawing the Map
Have them draw a simple map of that place, emphasizing landmarks and elements that stand out. Encourage them to consider the emotions, scents, and sounds associated with their memory. Remind them that this is not about artistic skill but about conveying a personal connection to the place.
Sharing the Experience
After about 10-15 minutes of drawing, invite students to pair up and share their maps with each other. Ask them to explain the significance of their chosen location and how it relates to their identity.
After the sharing session, gather the class together and initiate a discussion with the following prompt:
“Just as each of you has a place that holds meaning within your lives, in The Way to Rainy Mountain, Momaday embarks on a journey to a place that is rich with the history and identity of the Kiowa people. How do you think our personal landscapes shape who we are, and what might Momaday’s journey reveal about the landscapes of his own identity?”
This activity not only personalizes the lesson but also builds a bridge between the students' experiences and the themes present in Momaday's work. It sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of identity, memory, and the interplay between self and place, encouraging students to engage empathetically with the text and appreciate its cultural significance.