This project is the first four lessons of a quarter unit on American Indian stories, philosophies, commentaries, and arts, from traditional and contemporary sources. The overall object is to 1) introduce students to these types of literature and art, and, by moving from older (17-19^th century) forms to contemporary forms 2) break down the sense of otherness that many non-Indians may have regarding Native peoples. As well, they will gain an appreciation of the power of language to bring people together to share our common humanity, being able to apply that experience to all academic, cultural, and literary expression.