Truth and Reconciliation Day, observed on September 30, is a day for Canadians to reflect on the history and lasting impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous Peoples. In schools, it is often marked with learning activities that emphasize the importance of listening to survivors’ stories, acknowledging past harms, and committing to building respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Students may wear orange shirts to honour survivors and those who never returned. The day focuses on raising awareness, fostering empathy, and encouraging ongoing action toward reconciliation.
In my Grade 10 homeroom, we explored the work of Benjamin Chee Chee, an Ojibwe artist from Temagami, Ontario, known for his graceful line drawings of birds and animals that reflect his connection to nature. After learning about his life and contributions to Canadian art, students tried to recreate one of his elegant Canada goose pieces using Sharpies and pencil crayons, which gave them a hands-on way to appreciate his style and artistic voice.
Looking at his work, I was mesmerized by the simplicity, the gracefulness and flow.
I was inspired by THIS lesson on the Runde's Room website.
Grade 10 students used their laptops to look up images of Chee Chee's work. They copied one of his geese onto cardstock in pencil. Then they traced over the lines with sharpies.
Some finished artworks- my kids really enjoyed this project, even the 'non-artists' were really happy with their drawings!
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