Rationale
I created an online version of my unit to provide my colleagues with ideas in adapting and implementing Aboriginal content within the curriculum. The students will gain understanding on the culture and the world around them. This unit focuses on the Social Studies heritage unit of past and present to try and make connections of the then and now perspective on how the world has changed (revolution). All subject areas can be met in this unit to provide a vast range of learning experiences. Aboriginal content is a broad theme that can give a teacher endless activities. The focal points I have chosen were terminology and other significant information, weather – rain, housing, transportation, buffalo, weapons and tools, and nature/environment. Some interesting activities that I will or would of like to engaged the children in include: guest speakers, making bannock, floor planning a Buffalo (like a store ie Wal-Mart), field trips, creating their own canoes and tipis, and teaching them the importance of symbolism. Being an aspiring Caucasian teacher, I knew that there would be many obstacles. Two major ones were: What do I know about Aboriginal people? And an Aboriginal parent questioned my teaching on this subject based on the fact that I was Caucasian. There two concerns were very discouraging at the beginning of my unit because although we had many workshops and an abundance of resources I was unsure how to begin.
I chose the theme of Aboriginal past and present for a variety of reasons. As noted, Aboriginal content is very important within the curriculum and should be adapted thoroughly. Therefore, I took the risk of doing a complete unit based solely on this issue and the results were satisfying. From creating this unit, I overcame the obstacles and research process to give me a keen insight on hose to integrate Aboriginal content within different themes. I believe children at a young age should become familiar with the various cultures around them to avoid stereotypes. Children’s minds are like sponges as they take in a lot of information through peers and the media; therefore, as a teacher it could be inspiring to teach such a touchy subject.
Here is a list of Foundational Objectives that can be found in the Evergreen Curriculum to meet the needs of implementing Aboriginal content into the classroom.