Within the Social Studies curriculum, culture is mentioned an assortment of times throughout the Big Ideas, Curricular Competencies, and Content. In primary grades, students learn about what makes a community and the different perspectives within a community. The curriculum also wants teachers to bring in First Peoples’ culture into the classroom. When students are learning this, it is important to bring in the conversation of cultural appropriation. Since students are younger, cultural appropriation can be brought in through a storybook or a Social-Emotional lesson on respect. By ignoring appropriation in the classroom, we are actively contributing to the problem (Gorski, 2008). Students are capable of learning about appropriation and where it is seen in everyday life.

            In the intermediate curriculum, students learn about culture through immigration and perspective. When students learn, it is important to recognize Canada’s history with the culture and why many cultures may feel unwelcome or discriminated within Canada. By pointing out these norms, we call out the oppressive way things have always been done and educate the new generation to be more welcoming. When teaching about different cultures in history, ensure that it is done respectfully and with understanding to ensure it is done properly.

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Gorski, P. C. (2008). Good intentions are not enough: A decolonizing intercultural education. Intercultural Education, 19(6), 515–525. https://doi.org/10.1080/14675980802568319