Generalization and Rationale Objectives Teacher Information & Introductory Activity Main Lesson Supplementary Lesson #1 Supplementary Lesson #2 Print Lesson

Lesson 1 - Teacher Information

Teacher Information

The following lesson is intended to help students develop a comprehensive perspective on Aboriginal groups across Canada. Students must be able to recognize that there are significant differences between Aboriginal groups that are related to geography. For example, West Coast Aboriginal People do not draw pictures of buffalo, just as the Plains Aboriginal People do not carve totem poles. Geography and the natural environment also play important roles in deciding what occupations people within that region hold. Obviously, fishing rights are central to West Coast Aboriginal People's political mandate, while hunting rights are equally important to Plains Aboriginal People.

Introductory Activity

Divide students into groups of four, representing EAST, WEST, NORTH and SOUTH. Once in groups the students will be given a time limit (e.g. 10-15 minutes depending on overall class period length). During the allotted time they must uncover as much information as they can about their area (direction). Students will use the Internet, atlas, and textbooks to answer some of the following questions

1. What Aboriginal groups live in your region?
2. What provinces or territories does your region cover?
3. What Aboriginal languages are spoken?
4. Describe the geography of the region.
5. What is the population of the region?
6. What are some natural resources?

Encourage students to work as a team. The information should be written on large pieces of paper. Some students can be retrieving information from the various sources while others record it. Once the time is up, each group should select one or two spokespeople to share their findings with the class. Initiate a discussion that allows students to focus on the similarities and differences between the four regions.

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