Discussions
Conversations : Round Table : Consensus
The Inuksuk Conversations: What does an Inuksuk signify?
We worked in groups to have conversations around, what does an Inuksuk signify? What is the essence or true meaning? Can we capture those images? In small groups or working with partners these are the conversation we had:
A conversation…
 Well it points the way to harmony between to people and balance the honor of the Inuksuk and by the builder, the meaning is the meaning the builder gives it and it can act in the place of the human. It can point the way to special places and guide you if you are lost. It can show you the way forward like to a town or a strange place, it is kind of like a map. It is also a sign of welcome, friendship and joy. It might even serve to help you set goals for your future and show thanks for living in such a beautiful place. It shows where something significant happened and therefore we should show respect or act respectful towards it. You can use it to signify how we communicate knowledge from one human to another. It can honor places that had great significance, like maybe if there was a battle or something they could out it to mark where the battle was won or lost. It would be like a gift from the past showing where something significant had happened to keep giving to others.
A conversation in the form of an interview…
What is your understanding of an Inuksuk?
It is kind of a messenger to everyone around them for things like directions, important places, special memories and the ideas of the creator.
Why do you think Inuksuks are built on high places?
It is good because everyone can see them from far away and it gives the idea that they are important because they are higher up.
Do you know any examples of other things Inuksuks signify?
Well, I know that they signify directions, important places, dangerous spots where animals hunt, memorial places.
Do you know if they could signify a remembrance of those who were in the place before?
I think it does show that because they are special to everyone and people don’t knock them down because they know how important they are to others.
I understand that some of them act in place of a human, can you explain that?
Well, mostly for hunting or used to scare herds so that herds think they are surrounded by humans when really they are surrounded by Inuksuks.
 A conversation…
A remembrance of those who were in this place before… but we should really include the past, present and future. In respect of those who are here and in hopes of those who come after use will have a wonderful learning experience.
A conversation…
Well the Inuksuk is like a messenger that can mean anything like ancient Inuit street signs to showing the way, guiding you. Building an Inuksuk at our school could mean it is a safe place, there are many things always going on at a school and it could show those, it is a sign of welcome and joy. It shows harmony from everyone all the way from going outside to the playground to going inside for gym. I think and Inuksuk is like a sign of nature.
Round Table Conversations...
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