Explain that California Native nations are living, continuing cultures today, with federally recognized tribal governments and ongoing traditions.
Everything learned so far might sound like it belongs only to the past, but California Native nations are living communities today, not a chapter that closed. California has more federally recognized tribes than any other state -- over 100 -- each with its own tribal government that works alongside city, county, state, and national governments. Many tribal nations govern reservation or rancheria land, run their own schools, health clinics, and businesses, and make decisions for their own citizens.
Cultural traditions have continued and, in many cases, are being actively revived: languages once nearly silenced are being taught to children again, basket weavers pass down techniques introduced back in week 5, and traditional dances, songs, and ceremonies still take place. Learning California history honestly means learning both the hard history in the weeks ahead and the fact that these nations are still here, still governing, and still practicing their cultures today.
Mastery looks like: They can state that California has over 100 federally recognized tribes today and name one way Native traditions continue in the present.
Common stumbles: Assuming California Native nations only exist in the past; not realizing tribal governments function today alongside other levels of government.