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Anishinaabe Dodem (Clan) Network

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About This Sim

Click any clan node to learn its Ojibwe name, its English translation, and its role in traditional Anishinaabe governance and community life. The center node represents the dodem system itself — the organizing principle that connects all seven clans.

Language Content Notice

Clan names and descriptions in this sim are pending verification by community language authorities. See the course notice for details.

Lesson Plan

  • Subject: Ojibwe Language — Chapter 1
  • Bloom Level: Understand
  • Learning Objective: Students will be able to name at least four Anishinaabe clans and explain what role each plays in community governance.
  • Duration: 8–10 minutes
  • Prerequisites: Chapter 1 vocabulary — dodem, anishinaabe, anishinaabeg

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think leadership was divided between the Crane and Loon clans rather than concentrated in one group?
  2. The Bear clan holds both warrior and healing roles — what does that combination suggest about how Anishinaabe communities understood strength?
  3. How does the dodem system compare to how your own family or community organizes responsibility?

References