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Maq and the Spirit of the Woods

Elementary

Description

This animated film explores the interrelationships among the natural, human and spiritual worlds with the traditional tale of Maq, a young First Nations boy who struggles to fit in.  When a village elder helps the boy embark on an astonishing journey into the forest a mystical guide shows Maq that he has always been special and unique.

A study guide to accompany the video can be found here.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

This video examines themes of diversity, traditions and connections to nature and could be used to support social studies units that explore how First Nations peoples interact with their environment.  An elder member of a local Aboriginal community could guide students on a forest walk where they  learn about food plants and respectful use of the land.  This nature experience could be connected to stewardship with a discussion about the benefits of forest conservation for plants, animals and humans.

In the story Maq creates a carving that becomes the symbol of his individuality.  Students could explore their own uniqueness with an art project where they create a sculpture of themselves.  The sculptures could then be combined with cultural objects to create a school display celebrating diversity.

Study guide is available.

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      • Social Studies
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Local Communities: Healthy communities recognize and respect the diversity of individuals and care for the local environmen
        • Local Communities:: We shape the local environment, and the local environment shapes who we are and how we live.
    • Grade 2
      • Step 3Select a subject
      • Physical Education & Health
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Physical and Health Education: Our physical, emotional, and mental health are interconnected
    • Grade 3
      • Step 3Select a subject
      • Physical Education & Health
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Physical and Health Education: Our physical, emotional, and mental health are interconnected
      • Science
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Science 3: Living things are diverse, can be grouped, and interact in their ecosystems
      • Social Studies
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Global Indigenous Peoples:Indigenous societies throughout the world value the well-being of the self, the land, spirits, and ancestors
    • Grade 4
      • Step 3Select a subject
      • Physical Education & Health
        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Physical and Health Education: Understanding ourselves and the various aspects of health helps us develop a balanced lifestyle

Themes Addressed

Ecosystems (1)

  • Appreciating the Natural World

Human Rights (1)

  • Cultural Diversity

Indigenous Knowledge (2)

  • Rituals, Spirituality and Worldviews
  • TEK -- Traditional Ecological Knowledge

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