The Significance of Talking Circles and Talking Sticks - Example Lesson for Year 9 students

 

               

YouTube - Yarning/Talking Circles

                           

YouTube - Talking Sticks

Links to Pinterest

Talking Circles

https://au.pinterest.com/ticklestextiles/talking-circles/

Talking Sticks

https://au.pinterest.com/ticklestextiles/talking-sticks/

Sources of Inspiration

https://au.pinterest.com/ticklestextiles/sources-of-inspiration/

Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan: Understanding Talking Circles and Talking Sticks in Textile Technology

Year Level: Year 9

Subject: Textile Technology

Duration: 60 minutes

Topic: The Purpose of Talking Circles and Talking Sticks

Australian Curriculum Links:

• Design and Technologies (ACTDEK040): Investigate and make judgments on how the characteristics and properties of materials, systems, components, tools, and equipment can be combined to create designed solutions.
• Personal and Social Capability: Develop skills to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and build positive relationships.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (ACDEU029): Recognize and appreciate the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practices.

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Lesson Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Understand the cultural significance and purpose of talking circles and talking sticks.
2. Recognize how talking circles promote inclusivity, respect, and effective communication.
3. Investigate how talking sticks can be designed using various textile materials.
4. Reflect on the importance of creating human-centered designs that promote well-being and sustainability.

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Materials:

• Images and videos of talking circles and talking sticks (including Indigenous Australian examples).
• Textile materials (e.g., fabric scraps, yarn, beads, embroidery threads).
• Basic sewing and crafting tools (needles, scissors, glue).
• Whiteboard and markers.
• A talking stick (real or prototype) for demonstration.
• A3 paper and markers for group brainstorming.

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Lesson Outline:

Introduction (10 minutes):

1. Welcome and Acknowledgment of Country: Begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land and their connection to cultural practices such as talking circles.
2. Discussion Starter: Show images or a short video on talking circles and talking sticks. Ask students: "What do you think is the purpose of these objects in a community setting?"

Content Delivery (15 minutes):

1. Cultural Significance: Explain the origins of talking circles, particularly in Indigenous cultures, where they serve as a method for everyone to have an equal opportunity to speak and be heard.
2. Functionality of Talking Sticks: Describe how talking sticks are used within these circles to maintain order and respect, giving the holder the floor to speak without interruption.
3. Textile Connection: Discuss how talking sticks can be designed using textiles, incorporating cultural symbols, colors, and patterns that reflect the values and identities of the community.

Group Activity (25 minutes):

1. Investigation and Brainstorming:

   • Divide students into small groups and provide them with A3 paper and markers.
   • Ask them to brainstorm and sketch design ideas for a talking stick that could be used in their classroom or community. Encourage them to think about the materials they could use and how these materials symbolize values like respect, inclusion, and sustainability.
   • Have students consider how their designs can reflect aspects of Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., responsible consumption, promoting well-being).

2. Prototype Creation:

   • Allow students to create a simple prototype of their talking stick using the provided textile materials.
   • Encourage creativity and the inclusion of meaningful symbols or colors in their designs.

Reflection and Sharing (10 minutes):

1. Group Presentations: Have each group present their talking stick design, explaining their material choices and the significance of their design.
2. Class Discussion: Facilitate a class discussion on how the principles of talking circles and talking sticks can be applied in the classroom to create a more inclusive and respectful environment.
3. Closing Circle: Conclude the lesson with a mini talking circle where each student can share one thing they learned or appreciated about the activity.

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Assessment:

• Formative Assessment: Observe students’ participation in group activities and discussions. Assess their understanding of the cultural significance and purpose of talking circles and talking sticks.
• Design Evaluation: Review the creativity and thoughtfulness of the students’ talking stick prototypes, focusing on how well they incorporated cultural elements and sustainable materials.

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Extension Activity:

• Research Project: Assign students to research the cultural practices of talking circles in various communities around the world, comparing them with Indigenous Australian practices. They can present their findings in the next lesson, focusing on how these practices promote community well-being and cohesion.