After viewing the slides, reading the text segments and a thorough discussion of the material, have the students determine a set of illustration they would like to incorporate in making a quilt which tells the story of the Black Pioneers of Nova Scotia. Unbleached cotton swatches may be embroidered, painted, or coloured with markers. A broadcloth border and backing may be attached. Students may wish to host a quilting bee.
Bring to life significant scenes from the life of a Black Pioneer family through improvisational drama.
Further research using the resources listed in the bibliography of this booklet will provide sample portraits of Black Pioneers. Contact the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia for additional imagery. Have the students draw or paint the portrait of a Black Pioneer or a current Black role model.
Have the students carefully analyze a weekly newspaper. What kinds of information do they carry? To whom does the paper appeal? What products and services are advertised? What kinds of stories are told in local newspapers? Create a newspaper telling the weekly or monthly happenings in your Black Pioneer community. Create illustrations, feature articles and advertisements appropriate for the time of the Black Pioneers.
Have students assume the personality and role of a famous or not so famous Black Pioneer. Create a radio, television, or print interview of the Pioneer. Carefully consider the questions you wish to ask. How can you best ask the question to have the subject provide interesting and enlightening details of her or his life and thoughts?
Create a rap, chant or song exploring some aspect of Black Pioneer life.
Construct a model of an aspect of Black Pioneer life. Suggestions: Black Pioneer home, farm, or community, the Halifax Market, Black Pioneer occupation or activity.
As a Black Pioneer, create an imaginative journal describing your life and thoughts as you establish your life in Nova Scotia.