Corn was an invaluable crop among the Iroquois. Women used a mortar and pestle to crush kernels of corn into cornmeal. Have students take turns using this method to crush corn. Make corn bread or corn pudding--traditional Iroquois foods. These dishes can be made ahead of time or assembled in the classroom. Have a food-tasting party with typical Iroquois foods such as strawberries, huckleberries, chestnuts, acorns, beans and squash. Assign each student a dish to bring in.
Corn was more than just part of the Iroquois diet. It also played a role in their recreational activities. Teach students to make corn husk dolls. They will enjoy decorating their creations while learning how Iroquois children passed the time. Have each student make a mask, similar to those of the False Face Society. Educate students on how this group used their masks to scare off "demons" thought to cause disease. Assign students to "clans" and have each group learn a traditional Iroquois tale. Children can take turns telling different parts of the story to the class, as storytelling was a key component of Iroquois life.
Drums were the main instruments of the Iroquois. Members of the clan filled drums with water to create a sound that was different from other tribes'. Bring in several drums to the classroom and fill some of them with water. Allow students to take turns playing the different drums so they can hear how the sound varies.
The Iroquois homes, known as "longhouses," were built out of wooden posts, poles and bark. Have each student build a longhouse using craft sticks, wood chips, glue, etc. Children will gain understanding of the time and effort involved in building Iroquois homes. This activity can also be done in small groups.
The Iroquois grew sunflowers to make oil, which they used as a skin ointment. Give each student a small flower pot to decorate. Plant sunflower seeds in the pots and watch them grow throughout the year. This will teach students the patience demanded of the Iroquois when harvesting their crops.