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Curriculum Alignment

Māori Navigation and Wayfinding

4
Key alignment areas
Science + SS
Main learning areas
Phases 2-3
Useful progression range
Strong fit
“Students use observation, evidence, and pattern recognition to explain how systems work in the natural world.”

How this handout aligns

The cue-sorting and explanation frame makes observation visible. Students are not just told that wayfinding works; they identify the signs and explain why those signs matter.

🔬 Science 👀 Observation 🌊 Natural systems

Useful when kaiako want to show that traditional knowledge also involves repeatable observation and disciplined pattern reading.

Strong fit
“Students investigate how people use knowledge, tools, and systems to move, navigate, and make decisions in different places.”

How this handout aligns

The comparison frame explicitly asks students to compare traditional wayfinding and GPS. This supports a systems-and-technology conversation without treating Māori knowledge as secondary.

🌍 Social sciences 🧭 Systems and tools 📍 Place-based inquiry

Strong when kaiako want students to think about knowledge systems as context-specific and purposeful.

Supporting fit
“Students draw on identity, culture, and community knowledge when making sense of issues that affect people and place.”

How this handout aligns

The handout positions wayfinding within mātauranga Māori and Pacific voyaging traditions. It helps students discuss why this knowledge still matters rather than treating it as museum content.

🧭 Identity and place 🤝 Mātauranga Māori 🌿 Community knowledge

Especially helpful when the teaching aim includes tikanga, identity, and place-based belonging as well as academic content.

Strong fit
“Students communicate their ideas using accurate vocabulary, explanation, and comparison.”

How this handout aligns

The cue explanation frame, language bank, and traditional-versus-GPS comparison task all make explanation and comparison explicit rather than optional.

✍️ Explanation 🗣️ Discussion and comparison 📚 Vocabulary

Useful when kaiako need visible evidence of thinking for formative assessment, speaking, or writing.