Workhop Descriptions

 

K – 12 Make n Take Workshop

This is a hands-on workshop for Kindergarten to Grade 12 teachers usually for specific grade levels (i.e. Grade 1) but it can be tailored to meet the needs of the group. The morning begins with a First Nation’s Elder talking about his/her worldview both historical and contemporary; followed by time is spent going through the Themes and Topics matrix from K – Grade 12. The teachers are asked to work in groups to develop a step by step lesson in any subject area using the craft materials available. They use the K – Grade 12 Treaty Resource Guides for their specific grade level. Those teachers that prefer to create a role-pay or simulation lesson have that choice. Plenty of time is given to teachers. The lessons are shared with the group then added to OTC wiki space online. An additional objective is to have fun while learning about treaties.

This workshop is about the history of treaties made in what is now Saskatchewan. The day begins with a jigsaw activity where teachers work in groups. A First Nation’s Elder talks about her/his life experiences under the Indian Act, cultural teachings and contemporary issues. A brief look at the Treaty resource materials in the K – Grade 12 Treaty Resource Kit is followed by an activity on the Treaty Essential Learnings (TELs).   A treaty catalyst teacher (TCT) will be present to discuss her/his duties and how a TCT can be of assistance within their school and school division. Some resources from the Treaty Kit are utilized to model how they can be used in the classroom.

The objective of this workshop is to become familiar with the resources and materials used to teach treaties. A First Nation’s Elder will talk about her/his traditional teachings and cultural worldview.   The teachers will use computers on site to explore internet sites for their particular grade for information and getting familiar with the internet resources. The teachers will be asked to develop a lesson plan for immediate use in their respective classrooms. Teachers share the lessons with the group. A Treaty Teacher Leader will be present to assist teachers as they explore internet sites and the resources. Resources from the Treaty kit will be used throughout the workshop.

These workshops will assist teachers who are training as Treaty Catalyst Teachers (TCTs) in becoming more knowledgeable with the content for teaching treaties as well as the resources and materials in the Treaty Resource Kit and the OTC website. The OTC Elders play a significant role in the workshops by providing information about their traditional teachings as they relate to the specific cultural backgrounds of the Elders. The teachers will have some specific activities to complete with their respective school staff (teachers) prior to attending Day Two of TCT training. Once the training is completed the TCTs are requested to play the following role within their schools and at time school divisions. Please find below the Treaty catalyst Teacher Role as defined by the OTC.