American Heroes and Holidays
Session 5: Pocahontas: A Friend and Helper

Materials

• A teacher-selected book about Pocahontas
• Computers with painting software or a painting station set up for the students

Instructional Activities

NOTE: The following Web resources may be helpful for information on Pocahontas:
“Pocahontas.” <http://www.apva.org/history/pocahont.html>
“Pocahontas.” <http://www.educationalsynthesis.org/famamer/Pocahontas/>

1. Begin by reading the teacher-selected book about Pocahontas. Remind students that Pocahontas lived in the past, before George Washington was President, and is no longer living today.
   
   
2. Throughout the story, emphasize to students that Pocahontas was a helper and friend to the settlers of Jamestown, Virginia, especially Captain John Smith. Make it clear that Smith was not her husband.
   
   
3. After discussing the story together, allow students time to paint two pictures: one of Pocahontas being a friend to the settlers, and one showing how the student is a good friend to others in the class. Proudly display the pictures.