Graeme Arkell (Bachelor of Arts in English & History)
It was a pleasant experience working with my pod members Amelia, Garrett, Katie, Bryce, Bianca, Emma and Marian as we worked on our project to build an Aboriginal garden at Fairview Elementary School in Nanaimo. My main role in the project was to request donations from local First Nations groups. After sending out more than ten donation letters, my colleagues and I were delighted to hear back from the Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre. In a wonderful act of kindness they donated fifty dollars to our project and sent an Aboriginal Elder to bless the garden.
Our pod team worked together to gather materials and build the garden. I volunteered to gather and bring large stones to the garden. These rocks were used to create a beautiful perimeter around the outside of the garden. My pod mates brought in Aboriginal artwork and indigenous plant species that contributed to the garden`s aesthetic appeal. It is our intention that the garden will become a gathering place where students can relax and learn key aspects of aboriginal culture. I think that it is important to promote aspects of First Nations culture in schools so Aboriginal students understand that their traditions are valued. One such tradition is the belief that animals exemplify certain traits and principles that humans strive to emulate. First Nations symbols of three animals are on display in the garden: a raven, wolf and whale. The raven teaches people important lessons about life and morals. The wolf protects its pups until they are old enough to be independent. Whales are guardians who protect people who travel away from home and return them back home safely. As a teacher, I am inspired by the principles these animals live by and I will endeavor to strengthen these principles within myself. It is my hope that the garden will inspire young students to develop an understanding of Aboriginal cultures and practices as well as a desire to learn more.
Please click here to look at my e-portfolio.
Our pod team worked together to gather materials and build the garden. I volunteered to gather and bring large stones to the garden. These rocks were used to create a beautiful perimeter around the outside of the garden. My pod mates brought in Aboriginal artwork and indigenous plant species that contributed to the garden`s aesthetic appeal. It is our intention that the garden will become a gathering place where students can relax and learn key aspects of aboriginal culture. I think that it is important to promote aspects of First Nations culture in schools so Aboriginal students understand that their traditions are valued. One such tradition is the belief that animals exemplify certain traits and principles that humans strive to emulate. First Nations symbols of three animals are on display in the garden: a raven, wolf and whale. The raven teaches people important lessons about life and morals. The wolf protects its pups until they are old enough to be independent. Whales are guardians who protect people who travel away from home and return them back home safely. As a teacher, I am inspired by the principles these animals live by and I will endeavor to strengthen these principles within myself. It is my hope that the garden will inspire young students to develop an understanding of Aboriginal cultures and practices as well as a desire to learn more.
Please click here to look at my e-portfolio.