11 Pacific Studies

Course Overview

Term 1
In the first term of study, the class looks at research into aspects of Pacific change and development. This research task covers topics such as governments, infrastructure, music, entrepreneurship and much more. This is a chance for students to cast their net far and wide to understand how Pacific islanders have adapted to change and development over time. Through this, students are encouraged to lean on those around them with greater knowledge and understanding around Pacific issues and use this to strengthen their work.

There is a potential opportunity in this term for students that are performing well, to undertake some learning in the sport of Waka Ama. This is a great way for students to learn about voyaging, team work and ultimately get some exercise out on the water.

Term 2
During this term, students will have the opportunity to look over two internal assessments:

The first internal looks into the societies of Pacific island cultures. This looks specifically at life in rural communities such as life within a village setting and the many different protocols abided to there. This is quite significant as it allows students to perhaps explore their own Pacific island heritage and how local society operates as opposed to life in New Zealand.

The second internal is all about indigenous knowledge and practice. Students are focused on the history of their particular Pacific island nation and will explore how many practices were created. This often relates to topics such as myth and legend, cultural dance, tattoo art, religion and rituals. This is often knowledge that is lacking for Pacific islanders, so is a great topic to help understand about the very beginning of their heritage. Again, it is a great opportunity for students to reach out and gain knowledge from primary sources such as family members and the wider community.

Term 3
In term 3 the sole focus is around presentation to a wider audience. This is a practice that is done well in the Pacific through events such as birthdays, funerals, weddings and much more. The first few weeks will see students practice eye-contact, tone of voice, posture and presence and exercise this through different tasks. Once students are confident they will then select an aspect of the Pacific that they feel most comfortable about and then prepare a five minute presentation on this. This will be a practice presentation towards their final examination, launched in Week 1 of Term 4.

Term 4
At the beginning of this term, all students will present their understandings around Pacific culture. This will be through a planned presentation which should look to run for five minutes. This presentation will be supported by the work they put in through Term 3 and it will count for 50% of their total mark.