*** 2023/2024 School programs registration is now full – contact [email protected] to be added to the cancellation list.
Registration for the 2024/2025 school year will open in June 2024. Thank you for your interest! ***
Connections to the Peoples is a one-day, three session, Grade 4 program that examines the lifestyles of the earliest peoples working and residing in what eventually became known as Alberta.
Everything You Need To Know
See the Connections Programs Overview for instructions to best prepare your class for your program.
Topics Covered in this Program
- Early Albertans – Indigenous Peoples – Blackfoot Tipis. This session explores the life of the Indigenous peoples in the area through the construction of miniature Blackfoot tipis, an object that symbolizes the nomadic nature of the Indigenous lifestyle on the Prairies. The stories and culture of the Indigenous peoples in the area are examined throughout the activity. Students will take their mini tipis back to their classrooms, where they will have the opportunity to create a historical representation of a tipi village. This session is held in the North West Mounted Police Fort Officers’ Mess.
- The Fur Trade in Early Alberta. This session examines the interaction between European and Indigenous traders, stressing the importance of the fur trade to both parties. Simulation games re-enact the actual fur-trading experience with artifacts included in the activities. This session is held in the North West Mounted Police Divisional Kitchen.
- Explorers’ Pursuit. This session allows students to learn about Alberta, exploring the province through trivial-pursuit style gaming. Answering series of Alberta-themed questions on topics such as Peoples and Culture, Flora and Fauna, and Transportation and Construction, students move around the provincial game map, gathering different geographical “region” pieces to complete their own gameboard, learning as they go! This session is held in the North West Mounted Police Fort Program Space.
Connections to Curriculum
General Outcome 4.2: The Stories, Histories and Peoples of Alberta
To understand and appreciate the role of stories, history and culture in strengthening communities and contributing to identity and a sense of belonging.
General Outcome 4.3: Alberta: Celebrations and Challenges
To understand and appreciate how Alberta has grown and changed culturally, economically and socially since 1905.
For a detailed list of the Specific Outcomes & Skills and Processes that are taught in the Grade 4 program, please contact the Fort Heritage Precinct Programs Coordinator – [email protected] or 780-992-6635.
