7 Grandfather Teachings

The Seven Grandfather Teaching Traits & Values

How can these resources be used?

These resources can be used by educators to gain a better understanding of the Seven Sacred Teachings or the Seven Grandfather Teachings first before implementing them into the classroom.

How can these resources be used in the classroom?

To create an enriching learning experience, I highly recommend collaborating with the Indigenous advocates at each school. This will provide students with an opportunity to gain a deeper and more authentic understanding of the resources available. In my own classroom, I have utilized these resources by introducing each of the seven grandfather teachings and their significance to Indigenous communities' values and ways of living. A great story to share during this learning experience is "Seven Grandfather Teachings" written by Gloria Hope, an Indigenous Canadian of First Nations Anishinaabeg Ojibway heritage.

After sharing this story with my students, I encourage them to share their thoughts and ideas about what each teaching means to them. For instance, we could discuss questions like, "What does respect mean to you?" or "How can we show love to others?" There are several resources and activities listed above to allow students to read and learn more about each teaching and the animals that represent each one. Another activity to do with students could be creating a collaborative mural of each animal and the teaching they represent. Each student can include their name on the mural as a promise to themselves and their community to do their best to incorporate these teachings into their lives.

Though this content and these resources can assist in the integration of Indigenous knowledge into the classroom, it is important to seek out and build relationships with the Indigenous advocates in each school if possible, or Indigenous community members, knowledge keepers, or educators. We must remember that learning and educating on Indigenous perspectives should be done with and from local Indigenous community members.