In my quest for teaching resources, I came across a guidebook called Shared Learning: Integrating BC Aboriginal Content k-10, which was developed by the BC Ministry Education. The guidebook offers a variety activities that could easily be used in the classroom to meet the provincial curriculum expectations. Along with its lesson plans, the guide offers resource lists and assessment tools. This resource receives high praise in my books!

Recognizing that the integration of indigenous culture is mutually beneficial for mainstream and indigenous students, the guide highlights themes and activities that can be used in all subject areas, according to divisional level. Kindergarten to Grade 3 activities include indigenous storytelling in language arts and trading games in mathematics. The section for older students suggests activities that demand a little more critical thinking. Students are challenged to delve into deeper issues, many of which we have discussed in our course. The guide outlines lessons on the stereotyping of indigenous people in media, the impact of the Indian Act, the aboriginal view of science, the importance of indigenous role models, indigenous ways of teaching and the use of technology to learn about important indigenous people. Thinking back on my elementary education, we never explored these big, important ideas, even though they are crucial in understanding the past and present relations between indigenous and mainstream populations.

Imagine how much stronger the ties between mainstream and indigenous cultures would be if everyone knew and understood what we have been learning in this course. The BC Ministry of Education is doing it right by raising these valuable questions and teaching these issues at a young age.

Shared Learning: Integrating BC Aboriginal Content K-10, 2006. British Columbia Ministry of Education, 2006. http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/abed/shared.pdf Web. 24 October 2013.