Celebrating Cree Identity

Curriculum Area and Level

Subject: English Language Arts (ELA)
Grade: Year 1
Curriculum Standard: Ontario Language Curriculum (Grade 1)

• Reading: Listen to and understand a variety of texts, making connections to personal experiences.
• Oral Communication: Engage in discussions about stories read aloud, expressing thoughts and ideas clearly.
• Cultural Understanding: Recognize and appreciate the perspectives, stories, and traditions of First Nations communities.

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Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:
✅ Understand key elements of Cree identity through a read-aloud.
✅ Discuss the importance of knowing where they come from.
✅ Express their connections to identity through spoken responses and simple drawings.

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Materials Needed

📖 Book: "We Are Water Protectors" by Carole Lindstrom (or another age-appropriate book featuring Cree identity).
🖍️ Chart paper and markers.
✏️ Drawing paper and crayons.

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Lesson Breakdown (40 Minutes)

1. Introduction (5 Minutes) – Building Curiosity

• Gather students in a circle and ask:
  "What makes you who you are?"
  "Why do you think it’s important to know where we come from?"
• Write key student responses on chart paper under "Our Identities."
• Show the book cover and ask:
  "What do you think this story will be about?"

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2. Read-Aloud (15 Minutes) – Engaging with Storytelling

• Read the book aloud, pausing occasionally to ask questions:
  "How do you think the character feels about being part of their community?"
  "What traditions or teachings do you notice?"
  • Use expressive voices to bring the story to life.
  • Encourage students to make connections by asking:
    "Does this remind you of something in your own family?"

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3. Discussion & Reflection (10 Minutes) – Deepening Understanding

• Discuss with students:
  "What did this story teach us about being Cree?"
  "Why is it important to know our own stories?"
  • Write student answers on a new chart titled "What We Learned About Identity."
  • Connect themes to students’ own lives by asking:
    "What is something special about your own family or background?"

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4. Creative Expression (10 Minutes) – Art & Sharing

• Hand out drawing paper and crayons.
• Prompt:
  "Draw something that shows who you are – it can be your family, something you love, or where you come from!"
• Give students time to draw, then invite volunteers to share their artwork with the class.

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Assessment & Reflection

🔹 Observation: Did students engage with the story and discussions?
🔹 Participation: Were they able to express ideas about identity and traditions?
🔹 Creative Work: Did their drawings reflect understanding of identity and belonging?

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Extension Activity (For Early Finishers or Future Lessons)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Sharing: Ask students to chat with family members about their own heritage and share something new they’ve learned the next day.
🌳 Nature Connection: Discuss how Indigenous teachings often honour nature, connecting the story to the land we live on.

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Teacher Reflection

📝 After the lesson, reflect on:

• How well did students connect with Cree identity?
• Were they able to make connections to their own lives?
• What adjustments can be made for next time?

This lesson not only builds literacy skills but also nurtures respect and appreciation for Indigenous perspectives. 🌿✨