Important contents to consult when implementing First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge in the music classroom...
- Tips for Teachers (pg. 32) – What to keep in mind if a teacher wishes to conduct an Aboriginal ceremony. - First Nations Symbols and Their Meanings (pg. 38) – States that the drum is an important symbol of Aboriginal identity because it represents the heart beat of Mother Earth. - Cultural Protocols (pg. 39-40) – Describes how protocols are different depending on the community, why protocols are established, elders, and how to approach an elder. - First Nations Powwow (pg. 41-43) – Explains important aspects of a powwow such as dances, honour songs, and other customs. - Guidelines for Teachers (pg.58-59) – Recommendations for approaching Aboriginal teachings in a culturally sensitive and appropriate manner. - Talking Circle (pg. 60) - Based on the sacred tradition of sharing circles in which everyone is respected, welcome, safe, and seek understanding. |
Important Article Notes...
- Cultural appropriation is taking and using important cultural elements that do not belong to you without learning about them first. (Ex. Representing Indigenous peoples as caricatures or as only existing in the past or speaking on behalf of Indigenous peoples.) - Steps for avoiding cultural appropriation: Don’t practice Indigenous culture in your classroom, teach it. Do your research. - Relationships are a critical aspect of reconciliation. - Allow Indigenous people to speak for themselves and don’t start with genocide or residential schools. Instead, consider starting with resilient and proud Indigenous people and learn about contemporary Indigenous people. - Lists resources for teachers and classrooms and tips for selecting those resources. |
Description of Article...
Includes 'Curriculum Tables' for Kindergarten to Grade 12 with curriculum suggestions that incorporate FNMI 'Geographical Area/s OR Terms OR Nations to Highlight', 'Suggested Contributions to Highlight', and 'General Subject and Potential Strategies'. Suggestions are curated to correspond with the children's developmental, cognitive, and emotional ability. |
Description of Book...
Monique Gray Smith's book Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation suggests a 'call to teaching' in which teachers learn with their students and allow the students to shape the outcome. She also encourages teachers to create an open space in their classroom that permits students to ask hard questions and 'think with their heart'. Smith poses questions and provides resources to guide teachers and students on their path to implementing and creating a new society. |
Thank you to Dr. Dawn Burleigh for assisting me in finding these resources and articles.