aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	No subject
What age group	Year or Grade 2
What topic	land based learning grade 2 alberta curriculum blackfoot siksika nation treaty 7
Quantity	1
Any other preferences	all subjects grade 2 alberta curriculum overview learning outcomes skill knowledge formatine summative evaluation september to june

Grade 2 Land-Based Learning: The Blackfoot, Siksika Nation, Treaty 7

Introduction to Land-Based Learning

In this lesson, we will embark on an exciting journey to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Blackfoot people and the Siksika Nation, as well as understand the significance of our land through the Treaties of Canada. This lesson is designed for Grade 2 students in Alberta, aligning with the Alberta curriculum.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this year-long exploration, students will:

• Culture and Heritage: Develop an understanding of the Blackfoot culture and the significance of the Treaties.
• Connection to Land: Recognize the importance of land in daily life and Indigenous communities.
• Environmental Awareness: Identify local plants, animals, and ecosystems.
• Community Engagement: Demonstrate respect and appreciation for Indigenous knowledge and practices.

Skills and Knowledge Gained

Throughout the year, students will:

• Research Skills: Learn to gather information from various resources, including elders, books, and community stories.
• Critical Thinking: Develop the ability to ask questions about the land, culture, and identity.
• Artistic Expression: Use different mediums to express their understanding of the Blackfoot way of life.
• Collaboration: Work in groups to participate in land-based activities and projects.

Lesson Kick-Off: "A Journey Through the Land"

Hook Activity: The Story Stone

To begin our lesson on land-based learning, we will start with an interactive storytelling session called “The Story Stone.”

1. Materials Needed: A smooth, flat stone, a blanket, and a selection of culturally relevant images (e.g., animals, plants, Blackfoot symbols).

2. Setting Up: Gather the students in a circle on the carpet. Place the blanket in the centre and the stone on top of it.

3. Instructions:

   • Explain that the story stone is a symbol of our connection to the land.
   • As each student holds the stone, they will share a short story about their personal connection with nature or an experience they’ve had outside.
   • Encourage them to relate their stories to what they see around them on the land and what they’ve learned about the Blackfoot culture.

4. Discussion: After all students have shared, engage them in a group discussion about what they learned from each other’s stories and how these stories connect to the traditions of the Siksika Nation.

Reflective Exercise

End the activity by asking students to draw a picture of their favorite place in nature and write a sentence about how it makes them feel. This will serve as a personal reflection that ties back to their understanding of land and culture.

Format for Summative Evaluation

Throughout the year, students will engage in various assessments including:

1. Portfolio: A collection of their drawings, stories, and project work related to land-based learning.
2. Group Projects: Participation in a group project that focuses on a particular aspect of the Blackfoot culture or local environmental studies.
3. Presentations: An end-of-year presentation where students will share what they have learned with their classmates, focusing on their journey exploring land and culture.

Conclusion

This engaging lesson will not only introduce students to the significance of land in the Blackfoot culture but also foster a love for learning about nature, history, and community. With the Story Stone as a powerful tool, our journey will enrich our understanding of the land we walk on every day.

Let the adventure begin!