First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies · Grade 9

Active learning ideas

Cultural Expressions and Art

Indigenous art is a powerful medium for storytelling, political resistance, and cultural continuity. This topic moves beyond the 'traditional' to examine how contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists use diverse media, from hip-hop and film to beadwork and painting, to challenge stereotypes and assert their presence. Students will learn to distinguish between cultural appreciation, which involves deep learning and respect, and appropriation, which involves the unauthorized use of cultural motifs.

• Ontario Curriculum Expectations
• NAC1O A3.1
• NAC1O A3.3

• 20–45 min
• Pairs → Whole Class
• 3 activities

Activity 01

• Gallery Walk
• 45 min · Small Groups

Gallery Walk: Art as Resistance

Display images or play clips of contemporary Indigenous art around the room. Students move in small groups with 'observation journals,' noting how each piece addresses a historical or social issue. They leave 'sticky note' questions for other groups to consider, fostering a silent but active dialogue.

How do Indigenous artists use their work to express identity?

• Understand
• Apply
• Analyze
• Create
• Relationship Skills
• Social Awareness

Activity 02

• Role Play
• 40 min · Small Groups

Role Play: The Curator's Choice

Students act as museum curators deciding whether to include a specific item in an exhibit. They must argue whether the item represents authentic cultural expression or problematic appropriation, using a set of ethical guidelines provided in class to justify their decision.

What is the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation?

• Apply
• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Social Awareness
• Self-Awareness

Activity 03

• Think-Pair-Share
• 20 min · Pairs

Think-Pair-Share: Symbolism in Beadwork

Students examine a photo of Métis floral beadwork. They individually identify patterns that might represent specific plants or stories, then pair up to discuss how these 'flower beadwork people' used art to maintain their identity during times of displacement.

How does contemporary art reflect historical truths?

• Understand
• Apply
• Analyze
• Self-Awareness
• Relationship Skills

A few notes on teaching this unit

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

• Indigenous art is only 'authentic' if it looks traditional or old.

  Indigenous culture is living and evolving. Contemporary art using modern technology or styles is just as authentic as historical pieces. A gallery walk featuring diverse media helps students broaden their definition of Indigenous expression.

• Using Indigenous designs in fashion is a good way to show support.

  Without permission or partnership, this is often appropriation. Structured role plays about the ethics of the fashion industry help students understand the difference between honoring a culture and exploiting its symbols for profit.

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Methods used in this brief

• Gallery Walk
• Role Play
• Think-Pair-Share