Sacred Relatives

This awareness-level lesson introduces students to the Anishinaabe perspective of viewing nature as sacred relatives rather than resources to be used. Through interactive sorting activities, storytelling, and reflection, students explore how Indigenous worldviews emphasize interconnectedness and responsibility to the Earth and all living beings. The lesson challenges students to reconsider their relationship with nature and take meaningful action to care for their environment as family members.

Learners Will…

• Be able to identify how Anishinaabe people relate to the Earth and her living relatives, and reflect on how these practices show respect for all beings.
• Be able to recognize how they are connected to the Earth and all sacred relatives and use this understanding to practice kindness and care toward the world around them.
• Be able to acknowledge the importance of Anishinaabe teachings about interconnectedness and appreciate how caring for the Earth supports the well-being of all life.

Essential Questions

• In what ways do Anishinaabek view the Earth and nature as relatives instead of resources?
• How might my actions change if I think of the Earth and nature as part of my family?
• What is the difference between using something as a resource and caring for it as a relative?

Lesson Plan Materials

• Sacred Relatives: Resource or Relative Card Deck
• Sacred Relatives PPT: 
  • Resource or Relative Headers
  • Display Cards
  • Indigenous Author Quote
  • Relative or resource Display Chart 
• Student journals (optional)
• Pens or pencils (optional)