The Grade One students have been learning about the importance of oral tradition through the lense of Indigenous Peoples. We learned that an oral tradition is a culture's spoken words that have been passed down from generation to generation.

The main form of oral tradition that we have been focusing on is storytelling, which is a very important part of Indigenous People's culture. Storytelling is a way to teach and entertain others about culture, beliefs, values, rituals, and history. We have also learned that story in Indigenous cultures connects people to family and community.

There are three types of storytelling which are: Trickster Tales, Creation Stories, and stories about Cultural Heroes. Storytelling can be told orally, in song, in drumming, or shown on totem poles. Traditionally, stories are told by Elders or community members who have earned the title of storyteller.

Throughout Indigenous stories, we have learned the importance of animals to the Indigenous People. We also learned that each animal represents something different. For thousands of years, the Indigenous Peoples have lived side by side with animals in the forest and sea. Ancestors have many stories about each animal telling us what was special and unique about them. Indigenous Peoples reference and honour animals in their stories, songs, and dances. They also use their images on crests, which are placed on ceremonial clothing.

We have also learned that Indigenous Peoples have built a deep connection and understanding with all animals in the natural world. From this connection they have given lessons of respect and how to live in harmony with nature. Each animal is honoured for its gifts and special qualities. Through art, Indigenous Peoples establish a relationship with the animals they illustrate. Indigenous Peoples observe the animals’ way of life in nature, their strengths, instincts, reactions, and gifts. Indigenous Peoples traditions teach us to respect animals and their habitats.

We have also learned that throughout Indigenous stories the emphasis of nature is being referenced. Indigenous Peoples have a special relationship with the earth and all living things in it. Indigenous Peoples believe that "Mother Earth" provides us all with food, clean water, materials for our homes, clothes and tools. Indigenous People hunt, gather, and fish for food for their family having an understanding that they take what they need.

Indigenous People feel that because the earth provides us with an array of things, that they are responsible for the land, sea, and all of the creatures that inhabit the land with them. They also emphasize the importance of taking great care of the earth and not harming it in any way so that future generations will be able to enjoy what earth has to offer.