Our third graders had so much fun at our field trip! Our class was divided into two groups, Coyotes and Bobcats. Each group was led by a Naturalist from the ENC. The Naturalists taught the students many interesting facts about the Gabrielino Indians. Students learned that string was the most important tool the Gabrielino Indians used. Each child had an opportunity to twist their own piece of string just as how the Gabrielino Indians did.
The students also learned that these Native Americans used sea shells to make their own form of currency. Using a tool called a pump drill, the Gabrielino Indians bore holes into the shells to make small bead like pieces. They would also trade needed resources with other tribes, or even engage in a gambling game using acorns, walnuts, or sticks to try and quickly win more supplies for their own tribe. At the music station, the groups learned about the significance of music during Native American ceremonies. The instruments were made out of various plants and even animals. One instrument used a turtle shell. It was shaken like a rattle.
Another instrument was made with the hooves of a deer! We even went on "hunting" trips! The students learned to quietly sneak up to ducks in a lake to try to catch them using a net. The Gabrielino Indians, who actually call themselves, Tongva, also used rabbit sticks to hunt for small animals.
The children had such wonderfully positive things to say about their field trip. A few students chose the hunting as their favorite part of the field trip. Others voted that the string making was the best part. It was definitely great to see the kids fully engaged, learning, and having fun all at the same time.
Thank you Mr. Schaffer, Mrs. Kwok, and Mrs. Kudrin, for being our chaperones. I hope you were able to enjoy the day with your children!
Parents, if your child is interested, the Environmental Nature Center has nature camps available! Take a look at their website for more details.
