"Phases of the Moon," by Bill Dunford from NASA. Was published on October 4, 2017.
The Lunar Cycle
The timing of planting is often determined by the phases of the moon. Many Indigenous communities believe that planting during certain phases of the moon can help to promote healthy growth and abundant yields. For instance, planting during the new moon is thought to promote root growth, while planting during the full moon is believed to encourage leafy growth.
In addition to the practical benefits of planting according to the lunar calendar, many Indigenous cultures also view the moon as a spiritual and cultural symbol. The moon is often seen as a powerful force that connects us to the natural world and to our ancestors, and its cycles are thought to reflect the cycles of life and the seasons.
Incorporating the Moon's Teaching
By incorporating lunar teachings into Three Sisters gardening, children can deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and gain a greater appreciation for the natural world. They can also learn about the important role that Indigenous knowledge and traditions play in sustainable agriculture, and gain a sense of pride in their own cultural heritage.
A depiction of the moon painted by a student from Antler River Elementary School.
Participation
Antler River Elementary School students, who are located on the Chippewa of the Thames First Nation, will be the first participants in this project. The students belong to various grade levels and have shown great enthusiasm towards participating in the project. Their involvement will include sharing their observations on growth and moon phases, which will contribute to the project's research goals.
So far...
Grades 6 & 7
Since initiating the project, the 6th and 7th grade students from Antler River Elementary School have exhibited a remarkable boost in their thoughtfulness regarding environmental sustainability!
The pair of visuals below exemplify their progression. A 24.3% increase in thinking about protecting the environment is a staggering increase when compared with their prior interest.
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iSTEAM Educator, Dakota Ireland, is educating students about the importance, historical background, and ongoing relevance of the talking feather.
Grades 4 & 5
The younger students in grades 4 & 5 are showing an early consciousness and regard for the environment, albeit with slightly varied inclinations.
In contrast to their older peers, a significant number of these students are already actively contemplating and caring about environmental issues. Another compelling statistic reveals that a substantial segment of this group has developed an interest in home gardening since engaging in this project.
Witnessing Growth
The Three Sisters at a Glance
