Aboriginal Beliefs, Values, and Aspirations in Contemporary Society

Unit 2: Aboriginal Beliefs and Value Systems: The Impact of Colonialism
Time: 25 hours
Unit Description
In order to examine the question “Who Am I?”, students explore the meanings and significance of
creation stories in both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal contexts. Students examine how beliefs and value
systems are formed and reinforced through traditional learning and spiritual practices passed from
generation to generation through stories, ceremonies, and celebrations.
The impact of European and non-Aboriginal contacts, which have placed layers and layers of influence
on traditional beliefs and practices, is another focus of the unit. The experiences of communities, clans,
tribes, and nations are examined in an historical context. Students investigate how explorers, fur traders,
missionaries, churches, land agents, government agencies, and government policies came into conflict
with Aboriginal communities who were forced to re-adjust to contrasting notions of progress and
prosperity. The need for knowledge, self-awareness, support, and growth to restore balance for
Aboriginal peoples is examined through investigation of healing initiatives and traditional practices.
Roles of men, women, and children are examined historically and in a contemporary context.
Strand(s) & Learning Expectations
Strand(s): Identity, Relationships, Sovereignty, Challenges
Overall Expectations
IDV.01 - describe traditional and contemporary beliefs and values of Aboriginal cultures that influence
present-day activities and behaviours;
IDV.02 - identify aspects of cultural identity related to specific Aboriginal peoples;
IDV.03 - compare Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal perspectives on the contemporary cultural identities of
Aboriginal peoples;
IDV.04 - describe the efforts and actions of Aboriginal communities and individuals to maintain their
cultures and languages within traditional land bases, on reserves, and in urban settings.
REV.04 - demonstrate an understanding of the varying perspectives on Aboriginal peoples’ right to selfdetermination.
CHV.01 - identify the obstacles that Aboriginal peoples must overcome to protect and maintain their
cultures and languages;
CHV.05 - identify physical and spiritual survival methods practised by Aboriginal peoples to help them
meet the challenge of maintaining their cultures.
Specific Expectations
ID1.01 - explain specific environmental influences (e.g., salmon migration on the Northwest Coast;
caribou migration for the Dene people, utilization of forests and lakes by the Ojibway and Cree
communities) on the social and cultural identity of Aboriginal peoples;
ID1.02 - demonstrate an understanding of how Aboriginal peoples’ identity as custodians and protectors
of the land entrusted to them by the Creator (e.g., as expressed in the Thanksgiving Address) inspires
their historical and contemporary commitment to remaining on their lands (e.g., as reflected in their
negotiation of treaties such as the Maritimes Treaty of 1752 and Treaty No. 11);
ID1.03 - describe how Aboriginal practices, behaviours, beliefs, and symbols (e.g., hunting and fishing
traditions; ceremonies and feasts; the use of drums, music, and dance) strengthen Aboriginal cultural
identities;
Unit 2 - Page 1
• Aboriginal Beliefs, Values, and Aspirations in Contemporary Society - College Preparation