Gitxsan storytelling: the breath of our grandfathers

This project examines the role of education !n the attempt to include Gitxsan Storytelling in the Language Arts Program at the elementary level. This project recognizes the importance of including the Gitxsan Elders in outlining the path the project must take. Much attention over the years has focused on the reasons for First Nations children under-achieving in the present school system. The Elders and the literature review stressed the importance of First Nations children learning from their own culture. The project recognizes the support of First Nations groups, public schools and the Ministry of Education as they continue to stress the importance of providing language and culture to the First Nations students. At the same time, there is a lack of funding to provide the required resources. Providing a qualitative content analysis, as well as the practical application of a Gitxsan Storytelling unit and how it can be incorporated into the classroom, this project uses the voice and the perspective of the Gitxsans.