Heritage Community Foundation Presents
Alberta Online Encyclopedia and Edukits

Heritage Community Foundation Presents
Alberta Online Encyclopedia


Web Resources

In this section, students have an opportunity to search through other web resources located on the AlbertaSource.ca site.

People of the Boreal Forest

The People of the Boreal Forest website retraces the footsteps of Terry Garvin who, between 1954 and 2000, recorded in text and photographs the lives of traditional Aboriginal hunters and trappers living in Canada's northwest boreal forest. Garvin's material, which has since been published in two books: Bush Land People and Carving Faces, Carving Lives: People of the Boreal Forest, serves as the foundation of this website, and tells the story of ancient peoples in a changing north.
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Culture and its Meaning Edukit

Aboriginal Peoples in Alberta and across Canada possess a rich history and heritage. Understanding Aboriginal identity as it relates to culture is important for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples alike. Through the Aboriginal Culture and Its Meaning Edukit, students explore how Aboriginal People used and continue to use traditions, symbols, practices, events and objects to express their identity. Active participation by students in diverse activities promotes learning and ultimately contributes to their overall understanding of Aboriginal People and communities in Alberta.
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First Nations Contributions Edukit

The achievements and significant contributions of Aboriginal Peoples have changed the societal landscape throughout Alberta and Canada in many ways. The spirit of the Aboriginal Contributions Edukit is to introduce students to the many contributions of First Nations people in areas such as the Arts, Music, Theatre, Science and Technology, Sports and Recreation as well as Politics. Awareness of the extent of Aboriginal contributions empowers young people and encourages their social development.
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Health and Wellness Edukit

The Elementary section of the Health and Wellness Edukit provides focus upon traditional Aboriginal medical knowledge, which came from detailed knowledge of the world around them. The Secondary section gives an overview of the residential schools imposed as a tool for cultural manipulation. Two additional topics are the processes and activities to support social, cultural, and emotional health in traditional First Nations and the emergent Métis nation. Included are resource selections, biographies, glossary, timelines, visual resources, and activities. The Teacher Zone provides background material and possible instructional activities linked to the current Alberta Social Studies Program.
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Language and Culture Edukit

Today, many Aboriginal children do not communicate in their first languages. In some communities, it is only the Elders who speak the language. Recognizing the critical importance of Aboriginal Languages, the Aboriginal Language and Culture Edukit emphasizes the importance of language to culture and traditional education.
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Leadership Edukit

The Elementary section of the Leadership Edukit provides focus upon the groups and confederacies in traditional First Nations groups throughout Canada. Here are resources to help understand the way conflicts were resolved and how leaders are role models for their culture. The Secondary section gives an overview of the development of accommodation with the government of Canada and how the traditional groups dealt with conflict. It introduces contemporary First Nations and Métis leaders and organizations. Included are resource selections, biographies, glossary, timelines, visual resources, and activities. The Teacher Zone provides background material and possible instructional activities linked to the current Alberta Social Studies Program.
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Math Edukit

Pe'yak, n'iso, nisto. These words are Cree for one, two, three, and in this engaging Aboriginal-themed Edukit, students will learn about the significance of math in Native cultures. Topics covered include examining how mathematical concepts play a role in the construction of tipis, the creation of geometrical quill-work or beadwork designs, as well as the science of dendrology. This Math Edukit features colorful graphics, a photo gallery, a glossary, games, and math- related activities for students.
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Origin and Settlement Edukit

Explore Aboriginal origin and settlement patterns across Canada with a focus on Alberta. Stories of Aboriginal origin and settlement are central themes and provide students with a wealth of text, images, audio (including oral histories) and video resources. An examination of specific Aboriginal communities - including the Cree, Dene, Beaver, Métis and Blackfoot - traces the evolution of Aboriginal Peoples from nomadic tribes to dynamic communities settled across the province.
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Physical Education Edukit

What is the similarity between Rene Bourque, Theoren Fleury, and Ted Nolan? Not only are they accomplished National Hockey League players, but they also have Aboriginal heritage. From contemporary sports such as hockey, lacrosse, and track and field to traditional activities like powwows, the hoop game, or longball, physical education is an integral element of Aboriginal culture. In this exciting Edukit, students will discover various kinds of Aboriginal games and sports, familiarize themselves with successful Canadian Aboriginal athletes throughout history, and play educational games including crossword puzzles and word-searches.
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Science Edukit

This Edukit introduces students to the traditional Aboriginal practices that are rooted in science. Students will learn how Aboriginal Peoples dyed their clothing using natural substances, such as bark or berries, and what kind of scientific thought and natural materials were used to engineer a canoe. The text is complemented by historical photographs of natural vegetation and tools used by First Nations and Métis, and it also illustrates the various Native canoe designs. Students are invited to play the educational cross words puzzles and test their knowledge with the quizzes; other activities include crafting their own canoes and dying pieces of fabric.
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Spirituality and Creation Edukit

The Cree, Dene, Beaver and Blackfoot peoples of Treaty areas 6, 7, and 8 share many values and traditions. However, each has a unique view of creation and spirituality. Aboriginal values and beliefs are resilient, and spirituality is central to the continuing growth and survival of Aboriginal communities. The sacred underpins all aspects of life. The Aboriginal Spirituality and Creation Edukit recognizes Aboriginal creation stories, teaches students to respect Aboriginal spirituality in all that it encompasses.
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Sport and Recreation Edukit

The Elementary section of the Sport and Recreation Edukit provides focus upon the heritage of Aboriginal cultural and social activities. It introduces contemporary Aboriginal athletes and games. The Secondary section provides resources about traditional gatherings of First Nation groups and their festivities. Included are resource selections, biographies,glossary, timelines, visual resources, and activities. The Teacher Zone provides background material and possible instructional activities linked to the current Alberta Social Studies Program.
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            For more on Aboriginal hunters and trappers in Canada’s northwest Boreal forest, visit Peel’s Prairie Provinces.

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