Active learning ideas
This topic examines the legal and social frameworks that defined the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian state: treaties and the Indian Act. Students analyze the 'spirit and intent' of historical treaties, often viewed by Indigenous nations as sacred covenants of sharing and by the Crown as land surrenders. The Ontario curriculum focuses on how the Indian Act (1876) institutionalized the goal of assimilation, controlling almost every aspect of Indigenous life, from governance to identity.
Activity 01
Students participate in a mock hearing where they argue whether a specific historical treaty was a land 'surrender' or a 'sharing agreement.' They must use evidence from oral histories and written versions of the treaties to support their claims.
What was the original spirit and intent of the treaties?
Activity 02
Stations feature different versions and amendments of the Indian Act. Students rotate to identify specific restrictions, such as the ban on traditional ceremonies or the loss of status for women, and discuss the intended impact of these laws.
How did the Indian Act institutionalize assimilation?
Activity 03
Students reflect on the government's power to define who is 'Indian' under the Act. They pair up to discuss how this interference in identity affects community belonging and why it remains a controversial issue today.
What are the long-term impacts of these colonial policies?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Treaties are 'old news' and no longer apply today.
Treaties are ongoing legal agreements that form the basis of the relationship between the Crown and Indigenous peoples. Active learning through mock trials helps students see how these documents are still interpreted and enforced in modern courts.
The Indian Act was created to protect Indigenous people.
While framed as protective, the Act was a tool for assimilation and control. Deconstructing the Act's clauses in small groups allows students to see the restrictive and paternalistic nature of the legislation.
Methods used in this brief
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