This past week, during Link2Practice, I observed an environmental science 11 class and we went on a nature walk along Bowker Creek. Along the way, the teacher explained certain indigenous plants and what they are useful for. One plant that stood out to me is called “Ocean Spray“. This is well named because it has clumps of wispy cream coloured flowers that bloom in between May and June, which resemble the spray of ocean waves. However, this plant is also known as “ironwood” because the bark is super strong and indigenous groups would put the bark of this plant into a fire and it would come out as hard and tough as iron. It would then be used for things such as arrows, knitting needles and fishing spears. I thought this activity was super engaging to do with kids because it enabled them to go outside and see for themselves the plants that they were surrounded by and how indigenous groups utilized and cared for them. It made this lesson more personable and it also got students moving and active which I think is one of the reasons why they were more engaged. One resource that the teacher mentioned is great for finding out information about bc plants is a field guide called “Plants of Coastal British Columbia“. I think that this book will be super helpful for my further inquiries!