DOI
https://doi.org/10.62812/BFXB2263
Document Type
Curriculum Resource
Publication Version
In Review
Publication Date
Summer 6-12-2026
Keywords
Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ, Interconnectedness, Ecosystem Stewardship, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Ecological Relationships, Systems Thinking, Environmental Literacy, Outdoor Learning, Environmental Responsibility, Elementary STEM Education.
Description
In this heart-centered science lesson, students will discover the beautiful Lakota concept of Mitakuye Oyasin, which teaches us that "we are all related." Rather than seeing nature as a collection of separate things, children will learn to see the Invisible Web, the magical connections between the sun, soil, water, plants (flora), and animals (fauna). Through a hands-on "Yarn Web" activity and outdoor exploration, students will move beyond being just observers and start seeing themselves as stewards (caretakers) of their environment. They will learn that when we help a bee or protect a stream, we are helping our own Earth family. This lesson blends Indigenous wisdom with ecological science to help young learners develop a deep sense of gratitude, respect, and responsibility for the interconnected world they live in.
Pages
10
Type
Lesson Plan
Format
Language
English
Publisher
Open Prairie, South Dakota State University
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Recommended Citation
Arlene A. Abao. 2026. Food System Science Lesson-3 for First Graders. Mitakuye Oyasin: The Invisible Web (We are All Related, An Ecological Knowledge Lesson). ILEARN Teaching Resources. Volume 8 (1): 251- 260; DOI: https://doi.org/10.62812/BFXB2263