August

In this guided school program, students will learn about the history and cultural life of Vancouver’s Chinatown through our interactive exhibits and touchable teaching collection. Delving into the lived experiences and mementos of Chinatown’s diverse residents, students will gain an appreciation for the community’s resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage.

Total length: 1 hour

Grade levels: adaptable to all grade levels

Cost per student: $8 (1 adult chaperone per 5 students may visit for free)

Drawn to History is where art and history meet. With historical photos and artifacts as inspiration, the activities in this kit take students through perspective drawing, contour shading, drawing faces, and contemporary issues with indigenous rock art. This kit is suitable for grades 5 to 12 (may be altered for lower grades), with strong curriculum connections in art and social studies.

Our Regional Indigenous Basketry explores the different weaving and dyeing techniques used by this region’s Indigenous Peoples. With a focus on the Sinixt Peoples, students will explore weaving, dying, food collection, and Indigenous language through a series of activities. From designing a basket to making a traditional Sinixt recipe, this kit provides a glimpse into the traditions of this area’s first peoples. This kit is suitable for grades kindergarten to grade 7, with curriculum links to Social Studies, Arts, Science, and Language Arts.

The River Champions outreach program is available for students in grades 3-12. Note* This is offered ONLY as an in person field trip.

Grades 3-5  

Students explore the basics of climate science and river processes. Using a stream table model, students model different climate change scenarios and design infrastructure that could mitigate the damage caused by climate change. 

Grades 6-12  

Students discuss connections between climate change and land management practices, both traditional Indigenous and current industrial. Using a stream table model, students model different climate change scenarios and design infrastructure that could mitigate the damage caused by climate change. For the optional action project, students research how their communities may be susceptible to extreme weather events and climate change, and present their findings using ArcGIS Story Maps. A follow-up online workshop connects students to knowledge holders.

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Students explore and analyse archival photographs featuring Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) people and places chosen from exhibits presented at MONOVA (Museum & Archives of North Vancouver). These were shared projects of MONOVA and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) or individual members. The Squamish Elders and Language Authority chose many photos that represent local landscapes, the community and individuals, and contributed to exhibit research.

Your students will:

• Recognize that the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) is an active community today on the North Shore.
• Discover aspects of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) history and culture through photos.
• View primary source evidence and develop photo analysis skills.

Through images and activities, students come to know səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Chief Dan George and understand his historical significance. They discover how his acting career helped change the image of Indigenous people in the media and how his activism raised awareness of Indigenous rights in Canada. This Kit includes lesson plans to encourage discussion and critical thinking.

Your students will:

• View primary source evidence and develop photo and artifact analysis skills.
• Assess the historical significance of Chief Dan George.
• Read and discuss poetry by Chief Dan George, including his ‘Lament to Confederation’.
• Watch a unique video about Chief Dan George produced by the MONOVA.

Discover Coast Salish weaving and history through this hands-on activity, led by one of two Indigenous Cultural Programmers, Jordan Dawson or Tsawaysia Spukwus. Each delivers a uniquely personal program, sharing elements of the history and culture of Sḵwx̱wu̓7mesh U̓xwumixw, and teachings around weaving. Students will complete a simple, take-home weaving project in this 45-minute virtual session, which requires the pick-up of materials at MONOVA prior to the program date.