Land-Based and Indigenous Education at Island Lake

Grade 6

Snowshoeing

Image credit: https://www.msrgear.com/blog/how-to-get-kids-excited-about-snowshoeing/

Students will learn about the history and technology of snowshoes with a focus on Indigenous ingenuity and Knowledges. They will also discuss the form and function of different snowshoe designs, based on the diverse needs and geographical locations of various Indigenous communities. Proper snowshoeing techniques are demonstrated. Students will play warm-up games and go for a snowshoe hike. (Note: if there is insufficient snow on your field trip day, we will substitute this program with a winter hike). (1.5h)

Snowshoeing Curriculum Connections - Grade 6

SCIENCE
A1 STEM investigation and communication skills
A1.3 use an engineering design process and associated skills to design, build, and test devices, models, structures, and/or systems (in the pre and post slide deck)
A3 Applications, Connections, and Contributions
A3.3 analyse contributions to science and technology from various communities
B Life Systems: Biodiversity
B1.1 assess the benefits of biodiversity and the consequences of the diminishing of biodiversity
B1.2 analyse a local issue related to biodiversity while considering different perspectives; plan a course of action in response to the issue; and act on their plan

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION
B3 demonstrate responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others as they participate in physical activities
C1 perform movement skills, demonstrating an understanding of the basic requirements of the skills and applying movement concepts as appropriate, as they engage in a variety of physical activities;
C2 apply movement strategies appropriately, demonstrating an understanding of the components of a variety of physical activities, in order to enhance their ability to participate successfully in those activities

SOCIAL STUDIES
A1 Application: Diversity, Inclusiveness, and Canadian Identities
assess contributions to Canadian identities made by various groups and communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, and by various features of Canadian communities and regions
A2 Inquiry: The Perspectives of Diverse Communities
use the social studies inquiry process to investigate different perspectives on the historical and/or contemporary experiences of a few distinct communities, including First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit communities, in Canada

Interconnectedness of All Living Things Trail Walk

The concept of "two-eyed seeing" grounds this trail walk experience, with a focus on the benefits of both Western and Indigenous Knowledges. Students will hike through three different habitats and will examine the links between organisms and environmental elements such as water, climate, sunlight, etc. and how these understandings are embedded within Indigenous Knowledges. (Program duration: 1.5h)

Interconnectedness of Living Things Curriculum Connections - Grade 6

SCIENCE
Understanding Life Systems: Biodiversity
B1. assess the importance of biodiversity, and describe ways of protecting biodiversity

LANGUAGE
Reading
1.4 demonstrate understanding of increasingly complex texts by summarizing and explaining important ideas and citing relevant supporting details
1.5 develop interpretations about texts using stated and implied ideas to support their interpretations
1.6 extend understanding of texts by connecting, comparing, and contrasting the ideas in them to their own knowledge, experience, and insights, to other familiar texts, and to the world around them

Indigenous Games

Explore what Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples did and continue to do for fun! Students will learn about the history and culture of the Anishnaabeg and Haudenosaunee through several traditional games, including bone & toggle, mini-double ball, and peach pit. Lacrosse can be added to the program during the warmer months, if weather permits. During the winter, Inuit high-kick will be played instead of lacrosse. Pre- and post-program work will enable students to learn about their treaty partners and will compliment the hands-on portion of the Indigenous Games program. (Program duration: 1.5h)

Program developed in consultation with Dallas Squire, Kahnyen’kehàka (Mohawk), Turtle Clan from Six Nations of the Grand River.

Indigenous Games Curriculum Connections - Grade 6

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Active Living
B1 Active Participation
B2 Physical Fitness
B3 Safety

SOCIAL STUDIES
A. Heritage & Identity: Communities in Canada, Past and Present

Navigation & Mapmaking

Students will learn to recognize many important aspects of a map: legend, scale, title and the compass rose. They will also explore Indigenous ways of navigation and mapmaking. Using orienteering skills, students work in small groups to identify their direction, locate major terrain features and collect key pieces to solve a puzzle and reflect on how the land can act as a guide for our own journeys and future decision-making. (Program duration: 2h)

Orienteering & Navigation Curriculum Connections - Grade 6

SOCIAL STUDIES
A. Heritage & Identity: Communities in Canada, Past & Present
A1 assess contributions to Canadian identities made by various groups and communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, and by various features of Canadian communities and regions
A2 use the social studies inquiry process to investigate different perspectives on the historical and/or contemporary experiences of a few distinct communities, including First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit communities, in Canada
A3 demonstrate an understanding of significant experiences of, and major changes and aspects of life in, various historical and contemporary communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, in Canada

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