Dream Catchers

Class Description:

Students will construct a dream catcher. They will select a branch, shape it, weave a web with artificial sinew, decorate it with beads, and hang a feather on the completed project. Through completion of this craft students will practice patience and following directions, as well as learn about Ojibwe culture.

Total time: 1.5 hours
Audience: 4-20 students, 4th grade through adult
Activity: easy
Travel: none
Total uphill travel: none

Outcomes

Upon completion of the Dream Catcher evening activity students will be able to:

Describe the materials used in construction of a dream catcher.

Demonstrate the steps in making a dream catcher.

Explain the connection between dream catchers and Ojibwe history or culture.

Minnesota Graduation Standards

The Dream Catcher evening activity will provide students with guided practice, in an authentic setting, to support the following Graduations Standards. We have chosen one to three “major focus” standards per grade level. Due to the holistic nature of environmental education, several other standards, not listed here, are addressed as well.

6-8th Arts: Arts Creativity and Performance (1, 3d)
6-8th Art: Artistic Interpretation (3, 4)

4-5th Arts: Arts, Creativity, Performance and Expression (B)

Wolf Ridge Curriculum Concepts

• Creating something by hand gives an appreciation for the process.
• Art is an expression of human thoughts and feelings.
• Crafts are a way to learn about a culture.

Classroom Connections*

• Journal page download
• Pre-visit activities
• Post-visit activities
• Links to Dream Catcher information and activities on the web

*requires Wolf Ridge password