Activity Overview
There are many books related to Métis Peoples of Canada that can help students better visualize and understand the people, their culture, their past, and their present. Some short picture books can be used as a whole class read-alouds, where other longer books can be used as longer novel studies. Afterward, students can create a plot summary of the book using visuals and descriptions. This example is a summary of The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah M. Dorion.
Here are some examples of literature that relate to the Métis Nation:
- The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah M. Dorion
- Call of the Fiddle by Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton
- Dancing in my Bones by Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton
- Peter Fidler and the Métis by Donna Lee Dumont
- Relatives with Roots by Leah M. Dorion
- The Flower Beadwork People by Sherry Farrell Racette
- Grandpa's Girls by Nicola I. Campbell
- Shi-shi-etko by Nicola I. Campbell, illustrated by Kim LaFave
- Shin-chi's Canoe by Nicola I. Campbell
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Summarize the story in a 3-6 cell storyboard describing the main events in the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
Student Instructions:
- Read the story.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create a 3-5 cell storyboard with descriptions and illustrations showing the sequence of major events in the story.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events | Each of the cells represents a different part of the story. The cells are in order from beginning to end. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or more cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that accurately show events in the story and do not get in the way of understanding. | Most images show the events of the story, but some are incorrect. | The images are unclear or do not make sense with the story. |
| Descriptions | Descriptions match the images and show the change over time. | Descriptions do not always match the images or mention the importance of the event. | Descriptions are missing or do not match the images. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is very difficult to understand. |
Activity Overview
There are many books related to Métis Peoples of Canada that can help students better visualize and understand the people, their culture, their past, and their present. Some short picture books can be used as a whole class read-alouds, where other longer books can be used as longer novel studies. Afterward, students can create a plot summary of the book using visuals and descriptions. This example is a summary of The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah M. Dorion.
Here are some examples of literature that relate to the Métis Nation:
- The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah M. Dorion
- Call of the Fiddle by Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton
- Dancing in my Bones by Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton
- Peter Fidler and the Métis by Donna Lee Dumont
- Relatives with Roots by Leah M. Dorion
- The Flower Beadwork People by Sherry Farrell Racette
- Grandpa's Girls by Nicola I. Campbell
- Shi-shi-etko by Nicola I. Campbell, illustrated by Kim LaFave
- Shin-chi's Canoe by Nicola I. Campbell
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Summarize the story in a 3-6 cell storyboard describing the main events in the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
Student Instructions:
- Read the story.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create a 3-5 cell storyboard with descriptions and illustrations showing the sequence of major events in the story.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events | Each of the cells represents a different part of the story. The cells are in order from beginning to end. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or more cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that accurately show events in the story and do not get in the way of understanding. | Most images show the events of the story, but some are incorrect. | The images are unclear or do not make sense with the story. |
| Descriptions | Descriptions match the images and show the change over time. | Descriptions do not always match the images or mention the importance of the event. | Descriptions are missing or do not match the images. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is very difficult to understand. |
How Tos about Métis Literature
Incorporate Métis literature into cross-curricular lessons
Connect Métis stories to subjects like social studies, art, or music for deeper learning. For example, link a story’s theme to a history unit or explore Métis beadwork after reading. This approach builds cultural understanding across your curriculum.
Choose age-appropriate Métis books for your class
Select literature that matches your students’ reading levels and interests. Preview books to ensure content is accessible and engaging for grades 2–8, using picture books for younger students and novels for older ones.
Facilitate a meaningful class discussion about Métis culture
Guide students in sharing thoughts and questions about Métis traditions or characters. Use open-ended prompts and encourage respectful listening to promote understanding and empathy.
Encourage students to make personal connections
Ask students how aspects of Métis stories relate to their own lives. This helps deepen engagement and personalizes learning.
Display student storyboards to celebrate learning
Showcase completed storyboards in your classroom or hallway. This honors students’ work and highlights Métis voices within your school community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Métis Literature
What are some recommended Métis literature books for elementary students?
Recommended Métis literature for elementary students includes titles like The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah M. Dorion, Call of the Fiddle by Wilfred Burton and Anne Patton, and The Flower Beadwork People by Sherry Farrell Racette. These books offer engaging stories that help students learn about Métis culture and history.
How can I use Métis picture books in my classroom?
Métis picture books can be used as read-alouds for the entire class, sparking discussion about culture, traditions, and history. After reading, students can create visual summaries or storyboards to reinforce understanding.
What is a good storyboard activity for Métis literature?
A great activity is to have students summarize the story in a 3-5 cell storyboard, describing the main events in the beginning, middle, and end. This helps students visualize the plot and demonstrate comprehension.
Why is it important to include Métis stories in the classroom?
Including Métis stories in the classroom supports cultural awareness, respect, and understanding. It helps students appreciate diverse perspectives and the rich heritage of Métis Peoples in Canada.
What grade levels are Métis literature activities suitable for?
Métis literature activities are particularly suitable for grades 4-6, but many picture books can be adapted for younger or older students depending on the lesson goals.
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