American Indian - 7th Grade History Test

Geographic Regions

Northwest Coast

• Geographic Features: Rich, dense forests characterized by fir, spruce, and cedar; rugged mountains and deep canyons.

• Climate: Generally cool and moist, which supports thick vegetation.

• Main Food Sources: Sea shellfish, salmon, various fruits such as berries, and game like deer and bears.

• Types of Homes: Long houses built from redwood, with temporary structures made from logs and thick bark to insulate against cold.

California

• Geographic Features: Diverse landscapes including rugged coastal mountains and flat areas; diverse ecosystems with a mixture of forests and desert regions.

• Main Food Sources: Acorns, roots, berries, and small game. Fishing in rivers was also important.

• Types of Homes: Variations include cone-shaped houses made from willow poles and brush, perfectly suited for the environment.

Plateau Region

• Geographic Features: Flatlands and dry regions interspersed with mountains and valleys.

• Main Food Sources: Buffalo, deer, roots, berries, and nuts were common staples; emphasis on hunting and gathering.

• Types of Homes: Semi-permanent structures made of earth, mud, and reeds.

Great Basin

• Geographic Features: Arid landscape, highlighted by deserts and sparse vegetation.

• Main Food Sources: Plants such as wild onions and roots, along with small game animals.

• Types of Homes: Temporary structures were common; use of portable dwellings.

Southwest

• Geographic Features: Characterized by arid areas, canyons, and mountain ranges.

• Main Food Sources: Cultivation of crops (squash, beans, and chili), as well as hunting deer and small animals.

• Types of Homes: Built from adobe, earth, and stone; designed to withstand the heat.

Great Plains

• Geographic Features: Extensive flatlands featuring grasses and few trees; open space promotes a natural grazing environment.

• Main Food Sources: Primarily relied on buffalo; also hunted deer and gathered plants such as berries.

• Types of Homes: Tipis made from buffalo hides stretched over a wooden frame, easy to assemble and disassemble.

Woodlands Region

• Geographic Features: Dense forests provide a wealth of resources; varied terrain with both hilly and flat areas.

• Main Food Sources: Deer, gathered nuts, berries, and various plants.

• Types of Homes: Wigwams constructed from tree bark and grass; warm and suitable for the surrounding environment.

Tools and Clothing

• Clothing Materials: Utilized animal hides (buffalo, deer) and plant materials (cotton, seeds) to create garments.

• Tools: Made from wood, bone, and stone; including spears, knives, nets, and digging implements.

• Crafting Techniques: Woven baskets, crafted tools tailored to the specific needs of their environment.

Cultural Practices

• Craftsmanship: Women played a significant role in creating clothing and crafting tools.

• Hunting and Gathering: Lifestyles centered around the seasonal availability of food sources, emphasizing sustainable practices.