Learn how natives lived with nature, and lived according to the conditions of the environment. They had great respect for plants and animals, and did not separate themselves as greater beings from other wildlife, but believed that they shared the forest with the plants and animals. Through a guided hike, students will learn the history of the First Nations peoples of the Rouge Valley area; walk the trails they frequented for thousands of years before European settlers arrived; learn about plants they used for food, drink and medicine. Also, students will learn about the relationship between the people and the land by visiting the Medicine Wheel (a copy of the ancient teaching tool used by First Nations people), and making survival huts out of forest debris.   

Target Audience: Grade 6 (Age 11-12).  

Offered: Year round.

Program Length: Full Day - generally 3.5 hrs (10AM-1:30 PM) unless otherwise noted. Students will have lunch by the river.

Overall Goals

Describe characteristics of pre-contact First Nation cultures across Canada, including their

close relationships with the natural environment; the motivations and attitudes of the European explorers; and the effects of contact on both the receiving and the incoming groups.