Instructions:
- Given the specific growing needs required by Manoomin, students hypothesize in discussion the ways in which climate change may impact Manoomin locally. Students also discuss how other factors such as biodiversity loss, invasive species, contaminants in the environment, and human behaviors (water use) may impact Manoomin growth. It is important to note that climate change is only one factor impacting Manoomin. It is also greatly impacted by water use and water level management. Students should further reflect on how these threats to wild rice will impact the cultural practice associated with the growing, harvesting, and preparation of Manoomin. Time permitted this could be extended into an inquiry project with small groups researching different threats to Manoomin locally.
Extension Activity: The Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen
- Teachers review Learning Activity 1: The Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen from the Indigenous Knowledge Bundle with students.
- To do this Students listen to a song containing the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen (in language: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PztCBgXxio ).
- Students watch a video clip embedded on the QUILLS website of Kanyen’kehá:ka (Mohawk), Wolf Clan educator Liv Rondeau sharing the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen.
- Additionally, students watch a clip embedded in the ten-minute video accompanying this Learning Bundle of Liv Rondeau sharing and discussing the cultural significance of the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen.
- Students reflect on the value and importance of all things in the natural world and, accordingly, the importance of protecting Manoomin in addition to all of its relatives that rely on it and on which it relies.
- Students then conduct further research into resistance movements intended to protect Manoomin. Background Information:
Students prepare a “Snapshot of Resistance” focused on the work of a local community member who is fighting to protect Manoomin. Work should include information on the positive impact of wild rice on local habitat (ie: wild rice filters water and provides food and nesting materials for animals such as loons and muskrats) as well as a discussion of how the revival of practices not only has the potential to revitalize culture, but also to promote biodiversity.
