Elders: Observing Practice Activity
Total Time: Approx. 60 minutes
After viewing a video on the role of Elders in the classroom, participants complete a K-W-L-H graphic organizer to record their knowledge. Participants discuss how to apply their new knowledge to their teaching practices.
The strategies in this activity can be adapted for Observing Practice activities in other topic areas. Word documents may be revised as needed.
Introduction
One of the outstanding features of Walking Together is the Respecting Wisdom interviews with Elders, who are also referred to as Cultural Advisors, Knowledge Keepers, ceremonial leaders and traditional knowledge experts. The interviews give the digital resource credibility by representing and honouring the diverse perspectives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit on each topic area are represented and honoured. In addition, great efforts were made to ensure that all the Elders who participated in the interviews are recognized and respected in their own FNMI communities. Therefore, users of this digital resource can be assured that they are learning from some of the most respected teachers in the First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities across Alberta.
Activity 1: K-W-L-H Chart
Handout: K-W-L-H Chart: Elders 
Form small groups. Ask participants to record in the first two columns of the KWLH chart what they know and what they want to know about the answers to these questions:
- Who is an Elder?
- What is the role of an Elder?
- What protocols are used to invite an Elder into the classroom?
Activity 2: View the Video Elder in the Classroom
Ask participants to consider the three questions in the K-W-L-H Chart as they watch the video.
Overview of video: Elder Wilson Bearhead of Paul First Nation visits a Grade 5 Health class at Stony Creek School, Stony Plain, and shares some Nakoda wellness teachings. (21:34 minutes)
Activity 3: Complete the K-W-L-H Chart
In the small groups, complete the last two columns of the K-W-L-H chart:
- What We Learned
- How Can I Use What We Learned?
As a whole group, ask participants to consider what they learned from Wilson Bearhead’s presentation. Next, ask them to share what they know about the local First Nation, Métis or Inuit community and to consider these questions:
- How would you begin the process of inviting an Elder into your own classroom?
- What role do you see for an Elder?
Allow time for participants to revise their notes in the column for How Can I Use What We Learned?
