About English First Peoples 12
Big Ideas
The exploration of text and story deepens our understanding of diverse, complex ideas about identity, others, and the world.
Oral and other texts are socially, culturally, geographically, and historically constructed.
Voice is powerful and evocative.
First Peoples texts and stories provide insight into key aspects of Canada’s past, present, and future.
Self-representation through authentic First Peoples text is a means to foster justice.
First Peoples voices and texts play a role within the process of Reconciliation.
Curriculum
Exploring Indigenous Stories
English First Peoples 12 is a literature based high school English class that explores literature from the perspective of the Indigenous Peoples. Culture, identity, community, and the relationship between the people and the land are concepts that are all explored. Poetry, short fiction, novels, plays, and oral traditions are all different types of texts that will be read in the course.
Building Reading and Writing Skills
In this class, the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills of the students are developed. They are taught how to critically read a piece of writing and present their thoughts, both in writing and when presenting verbally. The assignments of this class include essay writing, journals, and creative writing.
Connecting Literature to Life
They will also learn how to write and speak for the purposes of creating and communicating. This involves showing respect when sharing ideas for the purpose of comprehension, demonstrating the ability for speaking and listening, using developed oral communication skills, sharing opinions and providing reasons for supporting them, and responding to the texts critically and creatively.
Working with First Peoples communities
To address First Peoples content and perspectives in the classroom in a way that is accurate and that respectfully First Peoples concepts of teaching and learning, teachers are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of members of local First Peoples communities. Permission for the use or translation of cultural materials or practices should be obtained through consultation with individuals, families, and other community members. As First Peoples communities are diverse in terms of language, culture, and available resources, each community will have a way to gain support for integration of local Indigenous knowledge and expertise. This authorization should be obtained prior to the use of any educational plans or materials. This resource was developed to help all teachers provide students with knowledge of, and opportunities to share experiences with First Peoples in B.C. To begin discussion of possible instructional and assessment activities, teachers should first contact First Peoples education coordinators, teachers, support workers, and counsellors in their district who will be able to facilitate the identification of local resources and contacts such as Elders, chiefs, First Nations tribal or band councils, First Peoples cultural centers, First Peoples Friendship Centers, and Métis or Inuit organizations. In addition, teachers can read the various Ministry of Education and Child Care publications available, including the “Planning Your Program” section of the resource Shared Learnings.