Lesson Plan: Counting and Addition in Cree

Illustration by Kim Gullion Stewart
Description:
In this lesson, students will learn basic addition while integrating the Cree language. They will count objects, solve simple math problems, and say numbers in Cree. The lesson incorporates hands-on activities, visuals, and cultural connections to support diverse learners.
Lesson Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
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Recognize and say numbers 1-10 in Cree.
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Perform basic addition (sums up to 10).
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Use manipulatives to represent and solve addition problems.
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Connect math concepts to Indigenous culture and language.
Step-by-Step Plan:
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Introduction (10 minutes)
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Start with a greeting in Cree: "Tānsi!" (Hello!)
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Show a number chart with Cree numerals (1-10) and practice saying them together. (Use learncree.ca as a reference.)
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Play a call-and-response game where students repeat numbers after the teacher.
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Counting Activity (10 minutes)
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Use small objects (beads, rocks, sticks) to count in Cree.
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Ask students to count along and match objects to the correct number word.
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Addition with Manipulatives (15 minutes)
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Present simple addition problems (e.g., 2+3=5) using objects.
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Say numbers and sums in Cree as students add.
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Example: "Nīso plus nisto ēkwa nīyānan." (Two plus three equals five.)
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Have students work in pairs to practice adding and saying numbers in Cree.
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Worksheet Activity (15 minutes)
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Distribute a worksheet with Cree numerals and simple addition problems.
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Students match numbers with the correct Cree word and solve problems.
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Game: Addition Bingo (15 minutes)
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Create Bingo cards with numbers in Cree.
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Call out sums in English and students must find the Cree number on their card.
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Celebrate winners with a Cree phrase: “Takaki!" (Good job!)
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Reflection & Closing (10 minutes)
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Ask students to share one new Cree word they learned.
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End with a closing phrase in Cree: "Ekosi!" (Thank you!)
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Inclusiveness Strategies:
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Multisensory Learning: Use visuals, hands-on objects, and auditory repetition to support different learning styles.
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Collaboration: Pair students to help each other with counting and pronunciation.
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Cultural Relevance: Connect numbers and counting to traditional Indigenous activities, such as counting fish or beads.
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Differentiation: Provide number cards for students needing additional support and challenge advanced learners with higher sums.
Visuals and Downloadable Files can be found under the Resources tab.
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Number Chart in Cree (1-10)
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Addition Worksheet (with Cree numbers)
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Bingo Cards (Cree numbers)
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Manipulative Counting Sheet