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 FPPL
- consider opportunities for meaningful curricular content that acknowledges traditional indigenous context (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.pdfBe mindful of the curricular competencies that incorporate the FPPL
FNESC 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.
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
BC Association of Mathematics Teachers
The BCAMT has curated a collection of resources to support teachers as they thinking about teaching mathematics through a First Peoples perspective.
Aboriginal Mathematics K-12 Network
The Aboriginal 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 Aboriginal learners. The website curates event information and resources from the symposiums.
K-12 Aboriginal Mathematics Network
Northwest_Place-Based_Mathematics_October2015_reducedslides.pdfNorthwest 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.
Presentation slide are posted below:
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:
- Jessica Silvey
- L'hen Awtxw Weaving House - Chief Janice George and Buddy Joseph
- Tsawaysia Spukwus (Alice Guss)
Some resources to support interdisciplinary weaving projects are included here.
Weaving Information and Simple Project Instructions.pdfWeaving and Math-Links to Resources.pdfMusqeuam_Sourcebooks-Weavers.pdfSD41_weaving-math.compressed.pdf
