Lessons
The following sequence of lessons and activities trace the story of the tomol from its past legacy to its role in modern day Chumash society. In doing so, they explore the larger idea of the Chumash in the present tense: how they are very much a part of our society today, and not just a historical footnote in a textbook. These elements can be completed in sequence, or as separate lessons.
Engage
Class Discussion: Sunset Paddlers
Students will examine a photo of Chumash paddling across the channel, and discuss using the See Think Wonder format.
Island Visions, pages 114-115
Discussion Guide
Suggested Duration: 20 minutes
Explore
Independent Research: Defining the Tomol
Students will examine the resources below, completing a comprehension worksheet.
- Web Experience: The Tomol
Follow the story of the tomol from it’s origins to the present day annual channel crossings.
islandvisions.org/tomol
- Read: “Just As Before”
Chumash activist Casmali Lopez discusses the role of the tomol for his people today.
Island Visions pages 21-23
Comprehension Worksheet
Suggested Duration: 40 minutes self-guided exploration (or as homework)
Explain
Class Discussion: Past and Present
Students will discuss how the Chumasn used the tomol in the past, and how they use it today, comparing their answers to their initial thoughts from Engage.
Discussion Guide
Suggested Duration: 30 minutes
Elaborate
Activity: Still Here
Students will find examples of Chumash presence in your present day community: art, street names, local leaders, cultural activities, etc.
Activity Guide
Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (with more time for field work if needed)
Evaluate
Class Discussion: Teaching the Past
Students will discuss how schools/textbooks/museums/etc depict the Chumash, and how this differs from the role that they play in their community today.
Discussion Guide
Suggested Duration: 30 minutes
