Sequoyah and the Cherokee Alphabet

This lesson focuses on Cherokee culture and compares that culture to the culture of the white settlers that came to Tennessee and interacted with the Cherokee. There is an emphasis on the comparison of Sequoyah’s syllabary to the English alphabet. 

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 
  • Compare the traditions of different cultures
  • Learn about other languages
  • Practice fine motor skills
Essential and guiding questions: 
  • What is similar and different about Cherokee and English writing?
  • What is similar and different about Cherokee dolls and the dolls of white settlers?
  • What are some reasons that cultures differ from one another?
  • Why did Sequoyah write his syllabary and why is it important?

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Analyzing

Helpful Hints

Materials Needed:

  • Amazing Cherokee Writer (book)
  • Flashcards (attached at the end of this lesson plan, be sure to print double-sided)
  • Water
  • Paper towels
  • Corn husks
  • Twine
  • Materials to decorate corn husk dolls (if desired)