Classroom Totem Poles

I had fun creating a classroom totem pole as I introduced this topic by presenting a power point about a little bit on the history of totem poles, an also pictures of my uncle, Ron Austin who is a Master Carver from Hazelton, B.C. who recently carved a 28 foot totem pole in Moricetown, along with 2 other totem poles in Smithers for the North West Community College, and Smithers Secondary school.

In the classroom students were really engaged as I brought some visuals to the classroom such as carved items like a mask, and a painted drum that was designed by my uncle Ron. 

The activity of this lesson gave students a chance to implement their own stories by creating their own crest, and sharing about their culture, or favourite emblem. I was surprised how well this lesson turned out. One of my favourite story from a student was who made a native designed salmon that resembled his summer visits to Bella Coola with family. Another one was having a story that resembled two nationalities by being from Canada, and China then the students spoke about both cultural experiences. All were so creative in their own ways, and at the end all the students were happy to present their crests that built on itself in the classroom. I would definitely do this again in the classroom, and happy to share a cultural activity.