How do I weave the First Peoples Principles of Learning into mathematics teaching and learning?
"Connections build conceptual understanding. The more and the stronger the connections are among related ideas, the deeper and richer the understanding of the concept"
(Hyde, 2006)
Considerations:
consult the language of the First Peoples Principles of Learning
be mindful of the curricular competencies that incorporate the First Peoples Principles of Learning
consider opportunities for meaningful curricular content that is inclusive of traditional Indigenous knowledge (examples in curricular content elaborations)
foster and strengthen relationships with local community and elders
Resources:
Consult the language of the First Peoples Principles of Learning
FPPL poster.pdfFPPL poster french.pdfFNESC First Peoples Principles of Learning
The First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) has shared the First Peoples Principles of Learning in their resources and in posters in both English and French (downloadable below). Based on these principles, BC educators co-created a resource to support Grades 8 & 9 mathematics teachers but many of the ideas can be adapted for all grade levels.
FNESC Math First Peoples Grades 8&9
FNESC has also published a primary (K-3) resource with important knowledge building information for teachers. There are eight interdisciplinary classroom units, three of which have specific mathematics connections: All About Me, GIfts from the Earth, and The Power of Stories.
Be mindful of the curricular competencies that incorporate the FPPL
Math First Peoples Teacher Resource Guide
The Math First Peoples Resource Guide is designed to help teachers of Mathematics Elementary & Secondary in BC extend their existing practice to incorporate new approaches.
The 2020 revision of this document also supports implementation of the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically the call to “integrate Indigenous knowledge and teaching methods into classrooms” (clause 62) and “build student capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect” (clause 63).
Tluuwaay 'Waadluxan Mathematical Adventures
This book is a collection of mathematical adventures co-created with community members and students from Haida Gwaii with UBC researchers. The mathematical adventures are inspired by local photographs making connections to place, language and culture.
edited by Dr. Cynthia Nicol and Joanne Yovanovich
order through cynthia.nicol@ubc.ca
Indigenous Mathematics K-12 Network
The Indigenous Mathematics K-12 Symposium, held at UBC annually, brings educators, students and community members together to explore projects, research and ideas for improving mathematics education for Indigenous learners. The website curates event information and resources from the symposiums.
K-12 Indigenous Mathematics Network
Northwest Mathematics Conference 2015 Place-Based Presentation
At the 2015 Northwest Mathematics Conference in Whistler, Janice Novakowski presented a session on Place-Based Mathematics, weaving in the First Peoples Principles of Learning in the Squamish Lil'Wat Cultural Centre.
Inside the Squamish Lil'Wat Cultural Centre
Northwest_Place-Based_Mathematics_October2015_reducedslides.pdfSlides from the presentation
SD38 Mathematics and Science Blog Post
Considering the question: How can we weave Indigenous content and perspectives into the teaching and learning of mathematics?
Weaving
Weaving is a cross-cultural practice with mathematical competencies and ideas embedded in the process. Many First Nations have used and continue to use local materials such as cedar, roots, and mountain goat and wooly dog wool for weaving blankets, baskets, clothing and hats. Contact local Indigenous knowledge holders or elders or your local cultural centre to learn more about the local weaving practices and the significance in your community. It is important not to overlay mathematics on a cultural practice but instead to first honour an understand the cultural significance of weaving within your local community while creating awareness of how mathematics might be seen and experienced in different ways.
Some Coast Salish weavers who share their knowledge and teachings through workshops and school visits include:
Some resources to support interdisciplinary weaving projects are included here.
Weaving Information and Simple Project Instructions.pdfA collection of ideas and links to resources connecting the practice of weaving and mathematical ideas, including instructions to weave a small wool mat
SD41_weaving-math.compressed.pdfSD41 (Burnaby) collaborative inquiry with secondary teachers around Coast Salish weaving and connections to secondary mathematics - a collection of lessons and ideas
Weaving and Math-Links to Resources.pdfWeaving and Mathematics List of Resource Links
Musqueam_Sourcebooks-Weavers.pdfMusqueam Weavers: Their Stories
Salish Blankets
Weaving Our World
Using the work of Susan Point to inspire and guide students' mathematical learning connected to fractions using materials.