Generalization & Rationale Objectives Teacher Information Introductory Activity Main Lesson Supplementary Lessons Download

Lesson 1 - Supplementary Lesson

Oral tradition has been a way of passing down knowledge for many Aboriginal groups. Elders would pass this knowledge to the people teaching of the history, spirituality, ceremonies, knowledge, values and beliefs of the community. The stories told about the land, spiritual world, environment, self and interactions with other societies. Within the stories were teachings and moral lessons for the people.

The Blackfoot people had many sacred ceremonies and traditions that have been passed on from generation to generation. The ceremonies often had a special purpose or intention for those that were participating. The ceremonies also guided the individual on how to present themselves or engage in certain behaviors. Much of Blackfoot spirituality stems from beliefs set forth by the Creator and Mother Earth. The earth is held to be sacred as it provides everything the Blackfoot people need to survive.

Ideally, it would be best to invite a Blackfoot Elder into the classroom to discuss Blackfoot spirituality and ceremonies with the students. However, if this is not possible, discuss with students the following elements of Blackfoot spirituality, which are general in nature.

The Sundance Ceremony

One of the most sacred ceremonies to all Plains Aboriginal groups, the Sundance ceremony was generally performed in the summer months, since this was the time when the berries needed to perform the ceremony were available. Often many different Aboriginal groups would come together to celebrate the Sundance. The Sundance is sacred to Aboriginal People and is an opportunity for an individual to make a personal vow in the form of a sacrifice. It is not deemed proper to discuss specific events and details. One of the sacrifices of the ceremony was to pierce the chest (this was done only by men). Every family gave offerings such as crosses covered with cloth and adorned in sage. By giving offerings and sacrifices, Aboriginal People believed that good fortune and spiritual strength would be blessed upon the individuals in the coming seasons. The ceremony provided people with a sense of peace and harmony.

Sacred Items

The pipe is the most sacred item used in spiritual ceremonies. It symbolizes honour, respect, and sacredness, and cleanses the body and mind of negative spirits. Sweetgrass is another essential element to a spiritual ceremony. Burning Sweet grass symbolizes a personal blessing and respect for the Creator. Sage was also used to purify the mind and body. Sage was laid near sacred objects and used as decoration for ceremonies. Red Ochre paint was used on the face and body as well as on sacred objects associated with spiritual ceremonies. Red reflects the earthly prayers for inner strength in overcoming negative influences. Together the pipe, sweetgrass, sage and red ochre paint could be used in a ceremony, however sometimes just certain elements are used within a ceremony.

Ask students to think of similar events and objects from their own cultures that are as important to them as the above mentioned are to Blackfoot people. Students should create another chart in their note books that compares their own culture with that of the Blackfoot.

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