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:

  • Recognize and say numbers 1-10 in Cree.

  • Perform basic addition (sums up to 10).

  • Use manipulatives to represent and solve addition problems.

  • Connect math concepts to Indigenous culture and language.

Step-by-Step Plan:

  1. Introduction (10 minutes)

    • Start with a greeting in Cree: "Tānsi!" (Hello!)

    • Show a number chart with Cree numerals (1-10) and practice saying them together. (Use learncree.ca as a reference.)

    • Play a call-and-response game where students repeat numbers after the teacher.

  2. Counting Activity (10 minutes)

    • Use small objects (beads, rocks, sticks) to count in Cree.

    • Ask students to count along and match objects to the correct number word.

  3. Addition with Manipulatives (15 minutes)

    • Present simple addition problems (e.g., 2+3=5) using objects.

    • Say numbers and sums in Cree as students add.

    • Example: "Nīso plus nisto ēkwa nīyānan." (Two plus three equals five.)

    • Have students work in pairs to practice adding and saying numbers in Cree.

  4. Worksheet Activity (15 minutes)

    • Distribute a worksheet with Cree numerals and simple addition problems.

    • Students match numbers with the correct Cree word and solve problems.

  5. Game: Addition Bingo (15 minutes)

    • Create Bingo cards with numbers in Cree.

    • Call out sums in English and students must find the Cree number on their card.

    • Celebrate winners with a Cree phrase: “Takaki!" (Good job!)

  6. Reflection & Closing (10 minutes)

    • Ask students to share one new Cree word they learned.

    • End with a closing phrase in Cree: "Ekosi!" (Thank you!)

Inclusiveness Strategies:

  • Multisensory Learning: Use visuals, hands-on objects, and auditory repetition to support different learning styles.

  • Collaboration: Pair students to help each other with counting and pronunciation.

  • Cultural Relevance: Connect numbers and counting to traditional Indigenous activities, such as counting fish or beads.

  • 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.

  • Number Chart in Cree (1-10)

  • Addition Worksheet (with Cree numbers)

  • Bingo Cards (Cree numbers)

  • Manipulative Counting Sheet

(Supplementary resources can be found at learncree.ca for pronunciation support and additional materials.)