June 21 - National Aboriginal Day

Good afternoon!

Today we honoured National Aboriginal Day through a number of learning activities (not to mention ones which were completed last week!).

We were fortunate to have Ms. Jen bring in her special drum. The drum had a butterfly which was painted in one form of traditional Aboriginal art. The drum was made from animal skin; ask your son or daughter which animal. She played her drum and we could feel vibrations in our bodies! Ms. Jen also talked about "smudging". We were able to smell what she uses to smudge. Students described the scents as "burned outdoor smell". It was a mixture of sage, cedar, and lavender; each represent a different characteristic. Sage - cleansing, lavender - beauty, and cedar - strength. We also learned that when you pick up feathers, you should ask nature for permission. Ms. Jen found eagle, hawk, and owl feathers while walking!

Ms. Jen and her drum.

A beautiful butterfly.

The drumming stick.

Cedar, lavender and sage to smudge/cleanse.

A very special feather! 

This reminded me of the medicine wheel. The attachments are sinew!

Max is probably used to this!

Students were able to feel drum vibrations.

Max attends a drumming circle, too! One of his favourite songs is Earth's Heart Song. We loved it! It is very calming and students were singing it throughout the day. Here is a link to the song. I hope you enjoy the imagery.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFa8hI7kKvs

Our clay animals are falling apart! This is the first time I have used clay so it was a learning experience for me. Fortunately we were gifted with special stones on which students were able to draw their animal.

Beavers can wear a bow in their fur! I agree with Tamika.  

Arinanna's little snake. She used beautiful colours. 

We made our own drums! We tried our best to play the same beat at the same time. Some of us also had time to create animal masks.

Ms. Paolini is asking for her overdue books! I will send emails to parents to have a look around the house.

Important Dates:

June 23: ZOO!!!
June 28: Last Day of School
June 28: Farewell Assembly at 8:30
June 28: Early Dismissal at 11:00
June 28: Report Cards

Have a great evening.

Ms. Cokar