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Sense of Humor

Sense of Humor preview

About This Resource

This awareness-level lesson introduces learners to how Anishinaabe embrace humor as a teaching tool, using stories and laughter to impart moral lessons, cope with adversity, and strengthen communal bonds.

Student Organization

Whole class, Small groups

Activity Setting

Classroom Setting

Time Required

70-95 Minutes

Learners will…

  • Explain who Weneboozhoo is and how his stories teach lessons through humor and exaggeration.
  • Recognize that laughter is an important part of Anishinaabe culture because it connects people, heals, and helps people learn.
  • Reflect on the lessons in stories—including their own mistakes—and understand how they guide the way they live and care for others.

Essential Questions

  • How do Weneboozhoo’s stories use humor and mistakes to teach important lessons about life and relationships?
  • Why is storytelling—especially with laughter—an important way of learning in Anishinaabe culture?

Lesson Plan Materials

  • PowerPoint slides: Sense of Humor (Awareness Level)
  • Video clip: Weneboozhoo and the Ducks video (search the internet for video)
  • Video and sound capabilities to watch and listen to the video as a group
  • Worksheet: Weneboozhoo
  • Worksheet: Comic Strip
  • Worksheet: Silly Poem
  • Worksheet: Skit
  • Pencils, markers, crayons

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