“Dipnetting with Dad” – Willie Sellars

This is a lesson that I designed myself and taught during my first practicum in a grade 3 class in Kamloops, British Columbia Canada.
I am very proud of this practicum overall as it was very new to me to start Indigenizing my practice. I was very accustomed to being in a multicultural classroom, as a student and as a teacher, however creating a diverse and inclusive environment is slightly different than honouring and incorporating Indigenous knowledge and practice.
In this lesson, I incorporate a story written by Willie Sellars, Chief of the Williams Lake First Nation of the Secwépemc Nation. As well as simple Secwepemctsín words for students to learn and practice using.

“When I Was Eight” – Margaret Pokiak-Fenton

As I continue to work on my Secwepemctsín, I continue to work on Indigenizing not only my content, but my practice as well. This is a journey that will not be quick, nor will it be easy, but it is imperative.
In this lesson plan, I have incorporated the story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, from Baillie Island, Northwest Territories, Canada, and use it as a starting point to address life in residential schools.
This lesson incorporates a lot of patience and critical reflection on behalf of the students participating, as well as deep respect and appreciation for the experiences and journeys many before them had to endure.