According to Paiute legend, the hawk and the coyote were not always animals as we see them now. Long ago, they were people, like you and me. The hawk was known as Kuhsawv, and the coyote was known as Soonungwuv. Coyote tales are part of the Paiute oral tradition used to teach proper behavio, natural phenomenon and values from an early age. These stories are only told during the winter time. The Coyote illustrates the mischievous nature in all of us. Students will listen to a Paiute tale and learn about folktales. They will also be introduced to the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, the location and how tribal members are working to preserve their language and culture. Students will also learn about how external structures and adaptations of animals help them to survive in their environment through a group activity. 

In this lesson, students will learn about the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah through a slide show presentation that helps students learn more about traditional vs. current ways of living, learning and governing. Each of these short descriptions help students to better understand that the Paiute people continue to thrive in Utah.Students will also listen to a Paiute Tale which is part of the Native American Indian Literacy Project and be able to use the book as an English Language Arts comprehension activity. The extensions and additional resources help the teacher to be aware of other ways that students can engage.