7th Grade Other (Arts) Cultural Activities

Bring authentic Indigenous knowledge into your classroom with this thoughtful, respectful, and engaging literacy and cultural assignment on Anishinaabek Medicine Bags. Perfect for middle or high school classrooms, this activity introduces students to the cultural and spiritual significance of medicine bags in Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) tradition, while encouraging personal reflection and creative expression.

What’s Included:

• A clear and concise explanation of the origin and significance of medicine bags in Anishinaabe culture
• Examples of traditional medicines and their spiritual uses
• Guided reflection questions that promote critical thinking and personal connections
• A design component where students sketch and plan their own symbolic medicine bag
• Culturally appropriate prompts emphasizing respect and understanding
• Embedded video links for supplemental learning

Learning Goals:

• Build cultural awareness and sensitivity around Indigenous practices
• Foster self-reflection and identity-building
• Integrate literacy skills through reading comprehension, written responses, and personal expression
• Support Truth and Reconciliation education in a meaningful and respectful way

Ideal for:

• Grade 7–10 English, Social Studies, Indigenous Studies, or Character Education
• Teachers seeking a culturally responsive resource that honours Indigenous voices
• Classrooms working toward meeting FNMI (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) curriculum expectations or Calls to Action

This resource was created with cultural sensitivity and educational integrity in mind. It encourages students to approach Indigenous traditions with the respect they deserve and deepens their understanding of spiritual and natural connections in Anishinaabe life.