Course Profile   Native Languages (LNADO-LNODO), Level 4, Grade 11, Open, Public

Unit 1:  Messengers

Time:  25 hours

Unit Description

In this unit and in the language of study, the student explores and researches the roles and responsibilities of messengers, both in traditional and contemporary Native cultures. The areas to be studied include oracy, literature, and works of art. When completed the students should have an enhanced understanding and outlook from a Native perspective about the contributions made by the Native people in the maintenance of their culture. Students complete an illustrated and written assignment to be presented to their peers.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Expectations

Assessment

Tasks

1.1 Review NL3 – Unit 1: Activity 1.2

75 min

OCV.01, OC1.03, REV.04, RE1.03, WRV.04, WR2.03

Knowledge/
Understanding

·         translating and comparing

·         brainstorming

·         writing

1.2 Ways of Conveying Messages

75 min

OCV.03, OC2.03, REV.02, RE2.03, WRV.02, WR1.02

Knowledge/
Understanding

·         research

·         writing

1.3 Traditional Methods of Communication

150 min

OCV.02, REV.03, WRV.05, OC2.03, RE1.04, WR1.01

Communication

·         writing

·         illustration

1.4 Exploring other Native Cultures

225 min

OCV.02, OC2.02, WRV.02, WR1.01, WR2.03

Knowledge/
Understanding, Thinking/Inquiry

·         explore

·         identify

·         record

1.5 Literary Works by Contemporary Native Writers

225 min

OCV.04, OC1.02, REV.01, RE.1.02, RE1.04, WRV.04, WR2.03

Knowledge/
Understanding

·         read

·         discuss

·         translate

1.6 Carvings, Sculptures, and the Messages Conveyed

150 min

OCV.02, OC2.03, REV.01, RE1.03, WRV.05, WR101

Application, Thinking/Inquiry

·         explore

·         create

1.7 Paintings

150 min

OCV.01, REV.01, RE2.01, WRV.05, WR101

Application,
Knowledge/
Understanding

·         explore

·         describe

·         create

1.8 Drama

150 min

OCV.03, OC2.03, REV.03, RE2.03, WRV.03, WR2.02

Application, Knowledge/
Understanding

·         produce

·         create

·         videotape

·         skit

1.9 Closure and Presentations

150 min

OCV.03, OC2.01, REV.02, RE1.01, WRV.05, WR1.03, WR2.01

Application, Thinking/
Inquiry

·         produce present Internet

Unit Planning Notes

·         Initiate contact with other high schools that teach and speak the same Native language and dialect for the purpose of establishing net pals.

·         Collaborate with the Computer teacher to ensure that students know how to use the electronic mail system.

·         Read Unit 5 and allocate time in the weekly schedule to assist students in preparing their choice of topics to be presented at the end of the course or semester.

·         Remind students of the cumulative project.

·         Request a bulletin board.

·         Create a portfolio system or maintain existing portfolios, if available.

·         Prepare a review which should include language structures and language patterns, nouns, verbs, pronouns, particles, etc.

·         Develop a rubric.

·         Identify language structure to be used and practised throughout the unit.

·         Prepare an information poster describing the use and format of a reflective journal.

·         Prepare a preliminary list of knowledgeable community members and historical sources in the community and surrounding areas.

·         Research and gather reference books on literary and artistic works by Native people.

·         Acquire and display a syllable chart.

·         Identify all the audio-visual equipment available in the school and familiarize yourself with its operation and use.

·         Meet with other teachers, especially the Native Studies, Computer, Science, Art and Family Studies teachers, and discuss areas of potential collaboration.

·         Be familiar with the use of computer technology and available software.

·         Create a checklist for reflective journals to be distributed to the students.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         NL3 or demonstration of required proficiency

·         sound knowledge of language patterns, including proficient skills in reading and writing, especially story writing skills

·         sound knowledge of safety procedures in the natural environment

Teaching/Learning Strategies

·         discussion

·         review

·         interview

·         prompts

·         role playing

·         research

·         brainstorming

·         retelling

·         note-making

·         conferencing

·         peer teaching

·         guest speaker

·         demonstration

·         writing process

·         direct teaching

·         think/pair/share

·         oral explanation

·         reading response

·         concept clarification

·         computer-assisted learning

·         independent reading

·         rehearsal repetition practice

·         community involvement

·         expressing another point of view

·         collaborative/cooperative learning

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Assessment strategies should match achievement levels for knowledge/understanding; thinking/inquiry; communication; and application. The list of strategies provided below are suggestions and the teacher may use any that have not been included.

·         rubrics

·         portfolios

·         anecdotal notes

·         peer checklist

·         grammar checklist

·         teacher checklist

·         oral and written quizzes

·         formal and informal observation

·         formative and summative evaluation

·         grading punctuation and language structure

·         regular evaluation of reflective journals

 

Resources

·         refer to the Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.1:  Review of NL3 – Unit 1: Activity 1.2

Time:  75 minutes

Description

Students review the oracy activity in NL3, and the translations for the speeches. They read the translations and compare them to the English versions. In the language of study, the students brainstorm about the messages created by these orators (e.g., Chief Seattle, Chief Dan George and others) and about how much information could have been lost in the translations.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.01 - communicate spontaneously and in a variety of new situations;

REV.04 - use electronic technology to communicate in a Native language with other students;

WRV.04 - use appropriate punctuation and appropriate diacritical marks on unfamiliar words.

Specific Expectations

OC1.03 - interpret written and oral work, with assistance;

RE1.03 - read a variety of written works for different purposes (e.g., leisure, knowledge, news, facts);

WR2.03 - demonstrate an understanding of the correct use of language patterns in their writing.

Planning Notes

·         Find translations and speeches used in the previous course.

·         If translations are not available, find video-taped speeches given by speakers of the language of study.

·         If using a video recorder, ensure that the equipment as in good working order.

·         Ensure that there are enough copies of the translations for the students.

·         Ensure adequate number of reflective journals (notebooks).

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         good reading and listening skills in the language of study

·         brainstorming skills

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Before beginning the activity and in the language of study, the teacher reviews and explains the course outline and the expectations of Unit 5. In addition to this, students receive a copy of the reflective journal format and are informed of the requirements used to assess learning through the journal. Students are informed that their completed work will be stored in a portfolio.

2.   Following the introduction, each student is given a copy of one of the translations (in the language of study) completed in the previous course (e.g., Chief Seattle, Chief Dan George, etc.) and is given sufficient time to read and study it.

3.   After the students have read and studied the translation, they write a paragraph on how that message, through language, records the history and culture of a people.

4.   Students compare these Native translations to the English versions and identify areas where misinterpretations might have occurred.

5.   In the language of study, students brainstorm other ways Native people use to convey messages
(e.g., drums, sand paintings, songs).

6.   Categorize those ways into traditional and contemporary and identify those that have become arts (e.g., dancing, music).

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         informal observation

·         checklist

Accommodations

·         Peer assistance.

·         Give extra time.

·         Allow the use of tape recorders.

Resources

·         speeches used in NL3

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.2:  Ways of Conveying Messages

Time:  75 minutes

Description

In the language of study, students explore the modes of conveying messages and their role in the maintenance of Native history and culture. Various forms of communication are researched and identified. Students identify an example of a messenger.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.03 - use specific vocabulary for specific topics;

REV.02 - read a variety of written works to gather information about cultural perspectives;

WRV.02 - communicate ideas, feelings, and information.

Specific Expectations

OC2.03 - speak confidently and persuasively on a range of topics, both familiar and new;

RE2.03 - demonstrate an understanding of written works by participating in oral language activities
(e.g., skits, paraphrasing);

WR1.02 - demonstrate their knowledge of different forms of writing (e.g., description, exposition, report, argument, dialogue).

Planning Notes

·         Gather samples of various forms of communication, including literary and works of art created by traditional and contemporary Native people with a focus on local artists.

·         Have chart paper available.

·         Reserve the computer room and ensure that the Internet is accessible.

·         Have research material available, including software, on literary and works of art.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         research skills

·         Internet search skills

·         note taking in the language of study

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher places various pictures of art work in prominent locations in the classroom.

2.   Working in small groups or pairs, students discuss, in the language of study, the probable reasons why traditional and contemporary artists might have created visual and written records.

3.   Students record the responses on chart paper. Enough space should be left to add information gathered from other groups.

4.   Continuing to work in small groups, the teacher asks students to give at least two names for each of the forms of communication and match the pictures with the forms.

5.   Students proceed to the computer room to research information on other artists.

6.   Students are given sufficient time to comment on their findings in their reflective journals.

7.   Journals are handed in for assessment and the teacher provides comments on language structure and grammar.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         checklist for reflective journals

·         anecdotal notes

Accommodations

·         Peer assistance.

·         More time for paragraph writing.

·         Modify the journal writing requirements.

Resources

·         refer to the Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.3:  Traditional Methods of Communication

Time:  150 minutes

Description

Students research traditional communication among Native people in their area (e.g., rock paintings, dance, music, birch bark scrolls, pottery, wampum, smoke signals, sign language, beadwork, birch bark work, drums). Students produce written text to accompany an illustration of the topic of choice. Their work is displayed in a prominent location in the school.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the vitality of a Native language;

REV.03 - demonstrate an understanding of an Aboriginal world view through an analysis of words;

WRV.05 - use electronic technology to communicate in a Native language with other students.

Specific Expectations

OC2.03 - speak confidently and persuasively on a range of topics, both familiar and new;

RE1.04 - demonstrate an understanding of Native historical writing (e.g., The Great Law, works by Peter Jones);

WR1.01 - demonstrate an understanding of Native cultural traditions and arts through the use of new words and phrases.

Planning Notes

·         Have chart paper available.

·         Reserve the computer room and equipment (e.g., scanner and digital camera).

·         Have research material available.

·         If available, invite a knowledgeable community member to discuss his/her traditional art.

·         Provide bristol board for the students’ display.

·         Provide art supplies.

·         Create a checklist for peer evaluation.

·         Review portfolios.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         should know the protocol for guest speakers

·         should have good research skills

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students brainstorm on traditional arts of their area and record these on chart paper.

2.   Working in pairs, students select one form of communication and research and write what they believe is the message given in their selection.

3.   A knowledgeable community member will be invited to talk about these messages and assist students in their translation or paraphrasing.

4.   Students create a large poster which includes the illustration and the written description or translation.

5.   Students present these posters to the class and display them in the school.

6.   Students store their projects in their portfolios.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         peer evaluation using checklist

·         teacher evaluation of written text

Accommodations

·         Pairing with a peer.

·         Frequent monitoring and conferencing for special needs students.

·         Frequent prompting.

Resources

·         refer to the Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.4:  Exploring Other Native Cultures

Time:  225 minutes

Description

Students continue to research traditional ways of communicating among other North American Native cultures. They explore and identify other ways of communication (e.g., sand paintings, totem poles, inukshuk, stone carvings, Mayan hieroglyphs). They record their findings in their reflective journals.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the vitality of a Native language;

WRV.02 - communicate ideas, feelings, and information.

Specific Expectations

OC2.02 - use intonations as spoken by a fluent speaker;

WR1.01 - demonstrate an understanding of Native cultural traditions and arts through the use of new words and phrases;

WR2.03 - demonstrate an understanding of the correct use of language patterns in their writing.

Planning Notes

·         Reserve the computer room.

·         Have research material available.

Prior Knowledge & skills

·         research skills

·         note taking

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students research and locate other North American Native cultures and their ways of communicating.

2.   Students locate and study at least three North American Native cultural groups to ensure that a wide variety of cultures are represented.

3.   When students complete the research, the teacher writes the identified ways of communication on the board and students choose one of these three to write a descriptive paragraph.

4.   Using available resource people who are knowledgeable in the arts, students describe and study the form of communication and translate their interpretation of the message in the language of study.

5.   After the teacher has assessed the texts, the students read their work to their peers.

6.   Pictures and text are stored in their portfolios for the final presentation at the end of the unit.

7.   Students are given time to reflect in their journals.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         assess the text for language use and language patterns

·         anecdotal notes

·         formal/informal observation

Accommodations

·         Frequent conferencing.

·         More time can be given to finish the paragraph.

Resources

·         refer to the Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.5:  Literary Works by Contemporary Native Writers

Time:  225 minutes

Description

In collaboration with the English and Native Studies teachers, students read, discuss, and translate literary works by contemporary Native writers (e.g., George Kenny, Duke Redbird, Drew Hayden-Taylor, Daniel David Moses, Richard Green, Sandra Montour, Ferguson Plain, Winston Wuttunee). They analyse the author’s message and discuss how this message impacts upon them as students.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.04 - understand and use complex language patterns;

REV.01 - demonstrate comprehension of written works;

WRV.04 - use appropriate punctuation and appropriate diacritical marks on unfamiliar words.

Specific Expectations

OC1.02 - describe events in literary works;

RE1.02 - compare and contrast ideas, characters, and events in written works;

RE1.04 - demonstrate an understanding of Native historical writing (e.g., The Great Law, works by Peter Jones);

WR2.03 - demonstrate an understanding of the correct use of language patterns in their writing.

Planning Notes

·         Have an abundant supply of literary works by Native authors.

·         Reserve the computers for Internet use.

·         Acquire some pictures of Native authors (display the book covers).

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         should be aware of contemporary Native authors

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   In the language of study, students brainstorm their knowledge of Native authors.

2.   A student records the names of the authors on flipchart paper. The chart is displayed in a prominent location in the classroom.

3.   The teacher takes one predetermined literary work which has been translated and distributes it to students to be used as a writing sample.

4.   Students write a short essay or a poem essay on a cultural or personal event in their reflective journals (e.g., first hunt, pow-wow, ceremonies, naming ceremony, first steps).

5.   Regular conferencing with the teacher through this exercise ensures proper punctuation and spelling.

6.   Students present their essays or poems to their peers.

7.   After presentation, the teacher assesses the journals for language structure and patterns.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         checklist for the essay

·         assess reflective journals

Accommodations

·         Frequent conferencing.

·         Peer assistance.

Resources

·         refer to the Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.6:  Carvings and Sculptures and the Messages Conveyed

Time:  150 minutes

Description

The messages found in carvings and sculptures are the basis for this activity. The work of well-known Native people will be explored (e.g., Bill Reid, Douglas Cardinal). Art with definite messages such as totem poles, soap stone sculpture, and antler art could also be investigated. Students explore the art of carving and sculpturing.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the vitality of a Native language;

REV.01 - demonstrate comprehension of written works;

WRV.05 - use electronic technology to communicate in a Native language with other students.

Specific Expectations

OC2.03 - speak confidently and persuasively on a range of topics, both familiar and new;

RE1.03 - read a variety of written works for different purposes (e.g., leisure, knowledge, news, facts);

WR1.01 - demonstrate an understanding of Native cultural traditions and arts through the use of new words and phrases.

Planning Notes

·         Have pictures and research material on sculpture and carvings available.

·         Acquire a sculpture or carving for display.

·         Have chart paper available.

·         Reserve the computer room.

·         Invite a local artist who sculpts or carves.

·         Provide a bar of soap or prepare blocks of plaster of paris for each student for a carving exercise.

·         Provide carving tools.

·         Review the safe handling of carving tools.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         research skills

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher shows a carving or a piece of sculpture and students discuss, in the language of study, the message inferred by the artist in the work.

2.   Using terms or names, such as, “Native carving/sculpture,” “Reid” or “Cardinal,” students search the Internet or other available research material for information on other artists.

3.   In the language of study, students share their findings, and using a downloaded image, discuss feelings elicited by the picture and define how that message is conveyed.

4.   The teacher reviews the safe use of carving tools with students.

5.   The teacher reviews and demonstrates carving techniques.

6.   The student plans a small carving and creates the planned carving using a bar of soap or a plaster of Paris block.

7.   Upon completion of the carving, student peers interpret the message conveyed in the carving. The student gives an oral explanation of the intended message.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         anecdotal notes

Accommodations

·         Have the special needs students write the oral presentation and read it to the class.

Resources

·         refer to the suggested Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.7:  Painting

Time:  150 minutes

Description

Students explore the messages delivered through paintings. They create a painting with the intention of giving a historical or cultural message. Students describe, in the language of study, the intended message in the painting.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.01 - communicate spontaneously and in a variety of new situations;

REV.01 - demonstrate comprehension of written works;

WRV.05 - use electronic technology to communicate in a Native language with other students.

Specific Expectations

RE2.01 - read materials orally, using correct pronunciation and with confidence;

WR1.01 - demonstrate an understanding of Native cultural traditions and arts through the use of new words and phrases.

Planning Notes

·         Acquire and prepare art supplies.

·         Have pictures of Native art available.

·         Create a peer evaluation checklist.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         use and care of art materials

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher presents a print of an original created by a local artist or a well-known artist.

2.   Students describe the message of this painting in the language of study.

3.   The class reviews and discusses several more paintings until students are comfortable describing the messages.

4.   Students plan a personal painting which describes an historical or a cultural event. Students are provided with painting materials to complete the project.

5.   When the paintings are completed, the students will describe, in the language of study, the message conveyed in their paintings to the class and provide a written text on the above message.

6.   The paintings are displayed in the class or throughout the school.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         peer evaluation on the oral presentation

·         assess written text

Accommodations

·         Provide peer support.

·         Modify the activity.

·         Allow extra time for completion.

·         provide tape recorders for presentations.

Resources

·         refer to the suggested Resources in the Overview

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.8:  Drama

Time:  225 minutes

Description

In the language of study, students produce a short ten-minute skit to recreate an historical or cultural event. Working in groups of four, students write, direct, and create appropriate props for the skit. The skit is videotaped and shared with other classes.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.03 - use specific vocabulary for specific topics;

REV.03 - demonstrate an understanding of an Aboriginal world view through an analysis of words;

WRV.03 - produce a variety of written works (e.g., story books, comic strips).

Specific Expectations

OC2.03 - speak confidently and persuasively on a range of topics, both familiar and new;

RE2.03 - demonstrate an understanding of written works by participating in oral language activities (e.g., skits, paraphrasing);

WR2.02 - produce a script (e.g., dialogue, comic strip).

Planning Notes

·         Invite a knowledgeable community member.

·         Collaborate with the drama teacher.

·         Have materials available for creating props.

·         Have plays by Native playwrights available as a resource.

·         Acquire a video of a Native-directed production.

·         Create a rubric for the skit.

·         Acquire permission/release forms from the students for sharing of the video tape.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         writing skills

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher shows the video of a play written by a Native playwright.

2.   Students discuss the methods used by the author to portray feelings and historical concepts.

3.   Students work in small groups to plan a short 10-minute skit about an historical or cultural event.

4.   After a brief discussion, students inform the teacher of their choice of a skit.

5.   The teacher distributes the rubrics and explain to students what is required for level 3 or level 4 achievement.

6.   With the assistance of the teacher, the students will develop a peer evaluation checklist on content, language, and creativity skills.

7.   Students are given the opportunity to collaborate with a knowledgeable community member.

8.   In their groups, students write the script and conference regularly with the teacher and the community member for language accuracy.

9.   The groups create and construct their required props.

10.  Students schedule time for the skits and make arrangements for the videotaping.

11.  The teacher arranges to make copies of these tapes, with student permission, to share the tapes with other Native Language classes.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         rubrics on the skit

·         peer evaluation checklist

Accommodations

·         Encourage peer assistance.

·         Assign tasks depending on strengths.

·         Provide frequent conferencing.

Resources

·         videotaped plays by Native playwrights – Aboriginal Peoples Television Network – www.aptn.ca

·         knowledgeable community members

 

Activity 1.9:  Closure and Presentations

Time:  150 minutes

Description

In the language of study, the students produce an appropriate and historically correct project that is submitted to a program on the Internet. They post the projects on the Web to share with the global community. Students schedule time to present their projects to their peers.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Oral Communications, Reading, Writing

Overall Expectations

OCV.03 - use specific vocabulary for specific topics;

REV.02 - read a variety of written works to gather information about cultural perspectives;

WRV.05 - use electronic technology to communicate in a Native language with other students.

Specific Expectations

OC2.01 - use simple, compound, and compound-complex sentences to express concepts and ideas;

RE1.01 - demonstrate comprehension of written works (e.g., using alternative words or phrases, breaking a message into smaller parts) by participating in and producing a language project;

WR1.03 - use varied vocabulary and expressions in conveying facts, opinions, emotions, and ideas electronically to students in other communities;

WR2.01 - produce a variety of written materials (e.g., short stories, notes, lists, poems, newspaper columns, advertisements).

Planning Notes

·         Reserve the computer room.

·         Create a peer evaluation checklist.

Prior Knowledge & skills

·         should know how to create or edit a webpage

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students choose an original project created in Activities 1.5, 1.6 or 1.7.

In the language of study, students explain their choice to the class and the reasons for their selection.

2.   The teacher reviews the activities and ensure that they are appropriate for inclusion on the Internet.

3.   Students meet with the Computer teacher to collaborate for assistance.

4.   Students conference with the teacher on a regular basis to ensure language is correct and that appropriate visuals of the activity are utilized.

5.   Students research the Aboriginal or educational sites and decide where these articles can be posted (e.g., WebQuest, SchoolNet.) If this is not an option, students collaborate, create a webpage and post the articles with assistance from the Computer teacher.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         peer evaluation

Accommodations

·         Encourage peer assistance.

·         Provide frequent conferencing.

·         Prompting.

Resources

·         Resources in the Overview

·         Knowledgeable community members

 

 

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