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Introduction to teaching Te Reo Māori
Congratulations for choosing to introduce Māori language to your class with Ka Mau te Wehi! An Introduction to Te Reo Māori.
Before embarking on a new learning venture, think about what you hope to achieve. In any class, some learners will already be highly motivated to learn te reo Māori, while others may need convincing that it is worth the effort.
Learning a second language has social, cultural, cognitive, intellectual, and employment-related benefits. Other benefits of learning te reo Māori, the indigenous language of Aotearoa, include enjoying an increased sense of belonging, preserving a national taonga, gaining insights into national heritage, and contributing to a more tolerant, enlightened future for Aotearoa.
Reasons for wanting to learn another language are as diverse as the individuals who take up the challenge. Guide your class in a brainstorm about the benefits of studying te reo Māori; it will be time well spent.
The benefits of learning te reo Māori
Te Aho Arataki Marau mō te Ako i Te Reo Māori - Kura Auraki has information about cultural, social, cognitive, linguistic, economic, career, and personal benefits of learning the language.
Using Ka Mau te Wehi! tasks and activities
Central to Ka Mau te Wehi! is a series of DVD scenarios that tell a story about a group of friends. Other content on the DVD includes discussions of new language forms and relevant cultural information.
A series of group activities supports each scenario. Learners can use these activities to strengthen their language abilities. They can use the new language when speaking and responding to others. Learners who have prior knowledge of te reo Māori enrich group interactions when they use already-known vocabulary and expressions.
Decide which of the suggested tasks and activities best suit your learners and needs. If all learners are beginners, watch the DVD and repeat a task several times before moving on.
As in any other curriculum area, some students will learn faster than others. You and your learners are in the best position to decide on the appropriate pace.