Lesson Plan 1: Everyone Matters

When we pause and listen, it opens the space to hear and be heard. In this lesson, students will participate in the Canadian Indigenous Sharing Circle and learn a traditional way to show respect with the use of a “talking stick”.

Grade level: 3-5

Prep time: 10 min

Lesson Duration: 35 min

Learning Outcomes:

It is expected that students will:

• Learn and experience the Indigenous tradition of using a talking stick in sharing circles.
• Be active communicators, engage in active listening, and display respect within the classroom and community.
• Demonstrate an understanding of Indigenous cultural ideas through reflection and application.
  

Comprehension Questions Include: 

• How do you think Nathan felt when Michael and others laughed at him?
• What did you learn about how we can use the talking stick or respectful conversation in difficult situations? 

Lesson includes:

• Activate, Acquire, and Apply Activities
• Talking Stick Reference Guide (Printable)
• My Talking Stick Colouring Sheets (Printable) 

Materials required (not included)

• The Talking Stick by Julie Niblett
• Decorative materials like feathers, leather string, jute, acrylic paint and beads
• Markers and Pencil Crayons 
  

NB: Purchase includes access to downloadable resources for 6 months