Aboriginal Studies
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This program consists of two activities, Pinch Pots and ‘Grandmother’s Circle”.
Pinch Pots
The creation of pottery is a tradition that has been passed down through the generations. Pottery vessels were used to hold a variety of objects such as water and corn.
These pots were precious and could take days to make. Shapes and patterns were produced to differentiate the pots from others. Students will examine examples of Aboriginal pottery artefacts that are found in the Museum collection, some of which are over 600 years old. Students will investigate the shape of the pots, clay thickness, and decorative patterns.
Using the information they discover during this brief tour, they will produce their own replica pot using the clay and tools provided. When they complete their pots, they will show them to their classmates and describe how they created the patterns.
Grandmother’s Circle
By joining Grandmother’s Circle, students will experience the unique education of early Aboriginal children. The formal part came from their Grandfather’s / Grandmother’s circle where stories were told which illustrated special life lessons.
Students will have the opportunity to listen to the stories and then act them out for their classmates. They will learn about the traditions of early Aboriginal Peoples and why these stories are important. Equally important yet less formal were the games that were taught and played under the watchful eyes of their elders. By playing these games, Aboriginal children learned and practiced skills, which would be useful to them, as they grew older.
These particular activities helped to sharpen the skills needed for hunting and protecting the village. Students will learn the rules for the games and then try the games themselves and test their skills.
Aboriginal Studies – Kindergarten – Teacher’s Guide
Related Categories: Educational Programs, Elementary, JK, SK.
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