Active learning ideas
This topic explores the transition from the restrictive governance of the Indian Act to Indigenous self-government. Students investigate different models of self-government, such as the Nisga'a Nation, the Westbank First Nation, and the Tłı̨chǫ Government. The focus is on how these nations exercise their inherent right to govern their own affairs, including education, health, and economic development.
Activity 01
Each group researches a different self-governing nation in Canada and creates a 'success profile' highlighting one area where they have seen improvement (e.g., education).
What does Indigenous self-government look like in practice?
Activity 02
Students debate the challenges and benefits of moving away from the Indian Act, focusing on issues like funding, jurisdiction, and community readiness.
How are communities transitioning away from the Indian Act?
Activity 03
Students move through stations focused on the 'pillars' of nation-rebuilding: constitution-making, judicial systems, and economic strategy, recording why each is necessary.
What are the benefits and challenges of nation-rebuilding?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Self-government means Indigenous nations are no longer part of Canada.
Self-government is a form of 'shared sovereignty' within the Canadian federation, similar to how provinces have their own powers. Peer teaching about different models can clarify this relationship.
The Indian Act is easy to get rid of.
The Indian Act is tied to funding and legal status; replacing it requires years of community planning and legal negotiation. A 'transition plan' activity helps students see the complexity of this process.
Methods used in this brief
Traditional Governance Systems
Students explore the diverse and complex traditional governance structures of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit societies prior to European contact. The topic highlights consensus-building and matriarchal systems.
8 methodologies
Modern Treaties and Land Claims
This topic examines the comprehensive land claims process and the negotiation of modern treaties in Canada. Students analyze the successes and challenges of these agreements in achieving self-determination.
8 methodologies