Totem Poles and Their Meanings
Grade 10th Grade · Art · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can analyze the cultural significance and symbolism of totem poles.
Warm-Up Video
Smarthistory · 5:49
The stories totem poles tell
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The totem pole at the Totem Heritage Center memorializes a Haida clan leader named Skoval and his grandchild who tragically passed away.
- 2
The word 'potlatch' refers to a gift-giving ceremony common among the Tlingit, Haida, and Simshian people, often associated with totem pole raisings and other cultural events.
- 3
The number of potlatch rings on a totem pole indicates the clan's wealth, not in terms of money, but in their ability to work together and host significant cultural events.
Practice Questions
10 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Describe the cultural significance of potlatch rings on a totem pole, including what they represent about the clan that erected the pole.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
