Indigenous Studies

The First Nations, Métis, and Inuit studies curriculum introduces students to the rich  diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit histories, cultures, perspectives, and contributions, and to the critical importance of Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing in  a contemporary global context. The courses in this curriculum address a wide range of content areas and disciplines, but they share a common vision, as described below).

Vision

All students in Ontario will have knowledge and appreciation of contemporary and  traditional First Nations, Métis, and Inuit histories, cultures, perspectives, and contributions. 

NAC1O1 Expression of Indigenous Culture, Grade 9 (Open)

This course explores various First Nations, Métis, and Inuit art forms (media arts, music, dance, drama, storytelling, visual art, installation and performance art, clothing design, and architectural design), giving students the opportunity to create, present, and analyze integrated art works infused with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives. Students will examine relationships between art forms and individual and cultural identities, histories, and values. Students will demonstrate innovation as they learn and apply art-related concepts, styles, and conventions and acquire skills that are transferable beyond the classroom. Students will use the creative process and responsible practices to explore solutions to integrated arts challenges.
Prerequisite: None

NDA3M1 Contemporary First Nations, Metis and Inuit Issus and Perspectives, Grade 11 (College/University)

This course explores existing and emerging issues of local, regional, and national importance to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit in Canada. Students will analyse diverse perspectives on issues and events related to land, community, governance, identity, culture, and global trends. Using the concepts of political thinking and the tools of political inquiry, students will explore their own and others’ ideas and investigate issues to determine what needs to change and why. Students are also given the opportunity to develop their own problem-solving strategies to address an issue of their choice. 

NBV3E1V World Views, Grade 11 (Workplace)

This course is only offered online.

NDG4M1 First Nations, Metis and Inuit Governance in Canada, Grade 12 (College/University)

This course explores aspects of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit governance in Canada as well as laws, policies, and judicial decisions that have affected and continue to affect the lives of Indigenous peoples in this country. Students will investigate historical and contemporary relations between First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities and colonial, federal, and provincial/territorial governments and will develop their understanding of Indigenous rights in Canada. Students will examine how traditional values and cultural practices inform models of Indigenous governance and leadership as they explore strategies being used to revitalize and strengthen First Nations, Métis, and Inuit sovereignty, self-governance, and self-determination in Canada.