Learn About John Herrington, The 1st Native American in Space
Ask students: When did John Herrington become the first Native American in space? What were some of the things Herrington brought with him to space?
For Native American Heritage Month, as part of our “Hidden Histories” series, we bring you the story of John Herrington, a decorated naval officer and trailblazing astronaut.
For a transcript of this story, click here.
Discussion Questions
- When did John Herrington become the first Native American in space?
- What were some of the things Herrington brought with him to space?
- Where was John Herrington born?
- How did Herrington become an astronaut?
- Why is Herrington now focused on storytelling as part of his career?
Focus Questions
What do you think is the most surprising or important aspect of John Herrington's story?
Media Literacy: Why do you think this story was produced as part of a series called "Hidden Histories"? Why do you think the producers considered the story "hidden" and what value do you think they see in telling such stories?
Extension Activity
Did you know that November is Native American Heritage Month? You can learn more about the purpose of Native American Heritage Month here.
Check out this lesson about the Wampanoag's continuous fight to protect their land may be particularly useful at the start of the school year and Thanksgiving time.
More Resources: Indigenous Peoples and Native Americans
Share My Lesson is your go-to resource for indigenous peoples and Native American lesson plans with this free PreK-12 collection of resources.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS NewsHour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories.
