Often we do not have the time to get deep into every outcome in our Program of Studies. One of the best ways to teach children about different cultures is through art.
This is a lesson we’ve done with our students for years.
If you look for them, there are many books out there illustrated by Indigenous artists of Canada. Their artwork is inspirational and many students connect with the illustrations of these books. They often depict the oral traditional stories of various groups of Aboriginal people and so they become invaluable in teaching students about the belief systems of other people in a creative way. You can easily combine art and social studies!
One of our most beloved books is by Leah Dorian. Her beautiful artwork is a favourite of our students. Every school we have moved to, we have re-bought this book so it can be in the school library.
We have created a visual lesson plan that you can use with your students below. For the more teacher-friendly version, you can download it free HERE.
These are just a few of the amazing pieces of art this lesson inspired. We have more included in our free lesson, so be sure to download it. It is part of a larger set of lessons featuring a variety of Canadian Indigenous Artists. Here are some other wonderful examples of how this project has turned out for students and teachers.
In what ways do you combine art with other subject areas? Have you tried this project? Be sure to tag us on social media. We’d love to see what your students came up with! Let us know what has worked for you in the comments below.