Respect Through Indigenous Teachings

Curriculum Area

Social Studies – Kindergarten
Topic: Indigenous Perspectives and Teachings
Aligned with Canadian Curriculum Frameworks, this lesson explores First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures, focusing on respect as taught through the symbolism of the eagle feather and Cree tipi teachings.

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Lesson Duration: 30 Minutes

Class Size: 6 Students

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

• Understand that the eagle feather is a sacred symbol in many Indigenous cultures, including the Cree.
• Learn that respect is a key teaching within Indigenous traditions.
• Explore how Cree tipi teachings represent respect within families and communities.
• Express their understanding of respect by drawing what it means to them on a tipi template.

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Materials Needed

• Book: A children's story focusing on the eagle feather and respect (e.g., "The Eagle Feather" by Kevin Locke or a similar Indigenous story).
• Large tipi template (paper or fabric) for group activity.
• Crayons, markers, or coloured pencils.
• A small feather or picture of an eagle feather to show to the class.

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Lesson Breakdown

1. Welcome and Introduction (5 Minutes)

• Teacher greets students in a respectful manner and introduces the concept of respect in Indigenous teachings.
• Discussion Starter: “What does respect mean to you?” Allow students to share simple examples (e.g., being kind, listening).
• Show an eagle feather and explain its significance:
  • In many Indigenous cultures, it is a symbol of respect, honour, and wisdom.
  • It is given to those who have shown great respect and kindness.

2. Storytime – The Eagle Feather (10 Minutes)

• Read aloud a children's book that highlights the importance of respect through the eagle feather.
• While reading, pause to ask:
  • “Why did the character receive the feather?”
  • “How do we show respect in our own classrooms or homes?”
• Encourage students to connect their experiences to what they hear in the story.

3. Cree Tipi Teachings – Respect (5 Minutes)

• Introduce the Cree tipi teachings, highlighting that each pole of the tipi represents a different teaching, and one of them is respect.
• Explain that respect means caring for each other, the land, and traditions.
• Show a simple tipi drawing and mark “Respect” on one of the poles.

4. Interactive Activity – Drawing Respect on the Tipi (10 Minutes)

• Give each student a tipi-shaped paper or contribute to a large class tipi poster.
• Ask them to draw a picture showing what respect means to them (e.g., helping a friend, listening, sharing).
• Encourage them to explain their drawings to the class.

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Wrap-Up and Reflection (5 Minutes)

• Gather students around the tipi artwork and reflect:
  • “What did you draw, and how does it show respect?”
• Reinforce that respect is a gift, just like the eagle feather, and we should practice it every day.
• Conclude with a simple Indigenous teaching or thank-you statement, such as “Tânisi” (hello, Cree) or “Ninanâskomon” (I am thankful, Cree).

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Assessment & Reflection

• Observation: Did students engage in discussion and connect with the lesson?
• Participation: Did they contribute ideas about respect?
• Creative Expression: Did their drawings reflect an understanding of respect?
• Reflection: Were they able to articulate their thoughts about the sacredness of the eagle feather and tipi teaching?

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Extensions for Deeper Learning

• Invite an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper or Elder to share a personal story about the eagle feather.
• Display the class tipi artwork in the classroom as a daily reminder of respect.
• Continue discussions on other tipi teachings in future lessons.

This lesson immerses students in Indigenous values while making respect tangible and meaningful to them at their level. It integrates storytelling, hands-on activities, and visual reflection, ensuring engagement and understanding.