Cross-cultural Understanding in the Classroom

This lesson incorporates language arts, social studies and computers to examine different cultural

stories.  Students will start by researching a story from their cultural background, share these

stories with their classmates and celebrate a variety of cultural traditions.

The Mystery of the Moai

This social studies lesson uses a story of the Moai statues of Easter Island to discuss

the culture and mystery behind the island.  Students work together in small groups

to create their own story of how the statues came to be there.

Baba Yaga and Empathy

A Russian fairytail about Baba Yaga, the main part of the unit will be told several times.  The story contains many examples of compassion and empathy which will hopefully instill a deeper connection and understanding of empathy in students.  The storytelling approach has been used to reach the children in an indirect way of learning.

Using Traditional Ukrainian Folktales

This lesson was developed with the goal of teaching peace and tolerance though the rich gifts of

Ukrainian folktales.  Students will have an opportunity to practice their storytelling skills based on  past

experiences, engage in a map making activity and hear the story of The Bear From That Other World.

Suitcase Stories

This project is based on a literature study of Hana's Suitcase and consists of five separate activities. The goal

of the activities is to build understanding and empathy within the classroom community. Students will construct personal timelines, examine factors impacting identity and make three wishes they have for the world.

I Belong

This grade one Social Studies unit will be looked at in the context of storytelling and peace

education to build a classroom community.  Students will create a booklet titled

"My life story in grade 1". They will complete the unit by telling a personal story to the class.

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