So today was my first real day in the gallery, and there is just non-stop information I need to look into and research.  For now it’s all about figuring out the focus that the gallery wants me to work on, then finding the content, activities, and resources I need to execute a good lesson / program for the gallery.

Thankfully today I got the low down on the necessary criteria they want me to work on, and for the particular grades the focus will center around (Grades 9 and 12)

From what I’ve experienced so far the content I’m to be working with ties directly into much of the IRP material for socials curriculum.  Everything I’ve read so far today has reaffirmed things I’ve learned in my classes not only during the Bachelor of Education program, but also in my own interests in history and first nations issues.  Main ideas I’m throwing around in my head are: the importance of the cedar tree, the potlatch and ceremonial masks, repatriation of cultural artifacts, protection of the forest and it’s impact on future generations, indigenous people’s connection to land, oral history, and maybe woodcarving.

Hopefully tomorrow solidifies the ideas I’ve got because right now it feels kind of directionless, but informed.

Here is just some of my notes so far.