Orange Shirt Day is a day in Canada to acknowledge the trauma of the residential school systems. In this activity, students will create a spider map that highlights important facts about Orange Shirt Day. By using a 5Ws graphic organizer, students can easily answer questions like who, what, when, where, and why. In this case, students may also answer the question "how?"
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a Spider Map highlighting important facts about Orange Shirt Day.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Answers to 5 questions about Orange Shirt Day as well as appropriate illustrations for each.
Encourage open dialogue by setting clear expectations for respect and empathy. Explain to students that everyone’s thoughts are valued, and it’s a safe space to share feelings and questions about Orange Shirt Day.
Choose a brief, age-appropriate story or video that explains the history and significance of Orange Shirt Day. Visuals and personal stories help students connect emotionally and set the stage for deeper discussion.
Use questions like, “Why do you think it’s important to remember Orange Shirt Day?” or “How can we support those affected?” to help students think critically and share their perspectives.
Remind students to listen actively when classmates are speaking, and to respond with kindness. Model respectful language and gently guide the conversation to keep it inclusive and thoughtful.
Invite students to write or draw a short reflection on what Orange Shirt Day means to them, or how they can honor and support Indigenous communities. Displaying their work helps reinforce the day’s message.
Orange Shirt Day is a Canadian day of remembrance that acknowledges the trauma and lasting impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities. It is important because it raises awareness, honors survivors, and promotes reconciliation.
You can use a 5Ws graphic organizer or a spider map to help students answer questions about who, what, when, where, why, and how related to Orange Shirt Day. This approach encourages critical thinking and helps students organize key facts visually.
Orange Shirt Day is observed annually on September 30th across Canada to recognize the experiences of residential school survivors and their families.
Schools can honor Orange Shirt Day by wearing orange shirts, hosting discussions on the history of residential schools, creating artwork, and inviting guest speakers from Indigenous communities.
The spider map activity helps students explore and summarize key facts about Orange Shirt Day by answering targeted questions and creating illustrations, fostering both understanding and empathy.