The following is a unit plan for creating a bentwood box with a woodworking class (Grades 8-12). The goal of this unit is to create a bentwood box and explore bentwood box makings historical and cultural connection to the local Indigenous communities. This is not a definitive unit plan as every Indigenous community is different and may have different beliefs and build techniques or may not have made bentwood boxes at all. It will need to be adapted based on those differing needs and traditions.
It is highly recommended to reach out to the local Indigenous communities and invite a trusted Elder and/or Knowledge Keeper into the classroom to add to the unit’s authenticity and create a real connection for the students to the material, practices, and visiting community member.
Unit Plan - Bentwood BoxDownload: Unit Plan – Bentwood Box (PDF) (Word)
This is a step by step walkthrough of one way to build a bentwood box. It may not be accurate for all locations and traditions and should be assessed for local connection, if any.
Bentwood Box InstructionsDownload: Bentwood Box Instructions (PDF) (Word)
This is an example of computer generated plans that students could use an example. These plans may depend on the build method being used.
Bentwood Box DrawingDownload: Bentwood Box Drawing (PDF)