In June, a group of students explored the traditional craft of basket weaving as part of their BC First Peoples 12 curriculum. Under the guidance of their teacher, they learned to weave baskets using locally sourced pine needles, blending Indigenous education with hands-on activity for a truly immersive experience.
Their adventure started in April when a significant windstorm provided an abundance of pine needles for harvesting. After thanking the tree for its gift of needles, the students prepared these materials, setting the stage for the basket-making process. Throughout the activity, they engaged in discussions on Indigenous education and the First Peoples Principles of Learning, emphasizing the deep connection to the land and the importance of using natural resources responsibly and with respect.
This pine needle basket weaving project was a crucial element of a broader unit exploring the connections of the Musqueam and other nations to the land. It exemplified holistic, experiential, reflective, and relational learning experiences, enriching students' understanding of Indigenous culture and cultivating a profound appreciation for its traditions.
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