Introduction

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In 2008, the Oceti Sakowin core concepts were developed by a team of educators and experts in culture, history, oral traditions, and language that collaborated with the South Dakota Department of Education. The team had identified the core concepts that focused on the essential to understanding and teachings of the Oceti Sakowin history and culture. Upon completion of this phase of development in August 2010, another team began to develop the essential understandings. The work was designed to provide compatibility to the South Dakota social studies standards. The essential understandings captured the core concepts that were identified at the beginning of the project. Indicators, standards, and activities were written to provide a framework for additional work and various forms of implementation. Culturally appropriate work created by other sources was identified to support suggested activities. The Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards are used in schools across South Dakota. They provide a foundation for teaching about the history and culture of the Oceti Sakowin (Seven Council Fires).