SUMMARY
For Native American Heritage Month, as part of our “Hidden Histories” series, we bring you the story of John Herrington, a decorated naval officer and trailblazing astronaut.
For a transcript of this story, click here.
News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM UP QUESTIONS
- When did John Herrington become the first Native American in space?
- What were some of the things Herrington brought with him to space?
- Where was John Herrington born?
- How did Herrington become an astronaut?
- Why is Herrington now focused on storytelling as part of his career?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What do you think is the most surprising or important aspect of John Herrington's story?
Media Literacy: Why do you think this story was produced as part of a series called "Hidden Histories"? Why do you think the producers considered the story "hidden" and what value do you think they see in telling such stories?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?
FOR MORE
What students can do: Did you know that November is Native American Heritage Month? You can learn more about the purpose of Native American Heritage Month here.
Check out this lesson about the Wampanoag's continuous fight to protect their land may be particularly useful at the start of the school year and Thanksgiving time. You can also see some of our other coverage of Native American history and current events here.
Lesson plan: After helping Pilgrims, today's Wampanoag tribe fight for their ancestral lands
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