Treaty Words: For as Long as the Rivers Flow (Introduction)

Resources Needed:

1. Treaty Words: For as Long as the Rivers Flow by Aimée Craft
2. Full Lesson Plan by Kareena Butler for Annick Press, from which this lesson is adapted.
3. Background information: A Treaty is a promise, an agreement, and the foundation of trusting and respectful relationships. “Treaty: it means that we agree to work together.” (p.31)

Introduction:

1. Write the word, treaty on the board. Ask students, What is a treaty? 
2. Create understanding about promises, agreements, and treaties with the following discussion questions, then have students share their thoughts with the class.

• What is a promise?
• Why should you keep your promises?
• How do you feel when a promise is broken or not honored?  

Lesson:

1. Read the book, Treaty Words: For as Long as the Rivers Flow by Aimée Craft
2. Tell students that: Natural Law helps to keep us in good relations with each other and the environment. Read the following passage on page 33: “Long ago, we made treaties with our brothers and sisters, the animal nations . . . With the deer nation, for example, we agreed not to take too many of them. In turn they would provide us with food and sustenance. We agreed to work together. To collaborate and respect each other.”
3. Discussion prompts: 
   1. Who shares the land where you live? (Create a list which includes land/rocks, water, animals, plants) 
   2. How are we respectful to each other and all living things? (Record students’ answers) 
   3. What happens when we no longer follow these natural laws? What are some consequences? 
   4. What are our roles and responsibilities to all living things? (include land/rocks, water, animals, plants)

Follow Up Activities:

1. See Full Lesson Plan by Kareena Butler for Annick Press for more lesson ideas.