Aotearoa's Climate Plan: What it Means for Us
Science / Pūtaiao · Years 9–10
Ngā Whāinga Akoranga · Learning Intentions
- Describe the main goals and key areas of Aotearoa's first emissions reduction plan.
- Analyse how the plan aims to reduce emissions across different sectors and what this means for whānau.
- Connect the plan's strategies to the broader challenge of climate change and Aotearoa's role in addressing it.
Paearu Angitu · Success Criteria
- I can identify at least three main goals of Aotearoa's emissions reduction plan.
- I can explain how the plan addresses emissions in at least two different sectors (e.g., transport, energy, agriculture).
- I can discuss the potential impact of the plan on individuals and whānau, and how it contributes to Aotearoa's climate action.
Video Companion · Aotearoa New Zealand's first emissions reduction plan | What it will mean for you and your whānau
Author: Ministry for the Environment · Duration: 1m 34s
Before You Watch
Before we dive in, take a moment to think: What do you already know about Aotearoa New Zealand's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions? Jot down any ideas or questions you have.
While Watching
As you watch the video, use your notebook to capture key information. Focus on the what and how of Aotearoa's plan.
- Main goals: What are the overarching aims of the emissions reduction plan?
- Key sectors: Which parts of our economy and daily lives are targeted for emissions reductions? Note one specific action or change.
- Impact on whānau: What might this plan mean for you, your family, and your community?
- Te reo Māori terms: Listen for any te reo Māori terms used and explain their context.
After Watching
Now that you've watched the video, reflect on the 'big debate' from our lesson: Is climate change best fixed by individuals changing their behaviour, or by changing the system? How does Aotearoa's emissions reduction plan fit into this debate? Discuss with a partner.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. Understanding the Plan
The video outlines Aotearoa's first emissions reduction plan. In your own words, summarise the most significant changes or initiatives proposed by the government. Which sector do you think will face the biggest challenge in reducing emissions, and why?
2. Impact on Whānau and Kaitiakitanga
The plan aims to reduce emissions for all of Aotearoa. How might the proposed changes impact your whānau and local community? Consider the concept of kaitiakitanga – how does this plan reflect our collective responsibility to care for our environment and future generations?
3. Systemic vs. Individual Action
Our lesson explored the tension between individual and systemic action on climate change. How does this government plan demonstrate a commitment to systemic change? What role do you think individuals still play in supporting or hindering the success of such a plan?
Hononga Marautanga · Curriculum Alignment
This activity directly supports the Science curriculum by exploring the causes and impacts of climate change, and evaluating strategies for mitigation. Ākonga will analyse real-world data and government responses, connecting scientific understanding to societal action and the concept of kaitiakitanga.
Ākonga will develop their literacy skills by actively listening to and comprehending an informational video. They will practise identifying main ideas, extracting specific details, and summarising complex information, enhancing their ability to analyse non-fiction texts and articulate their understanding.
Tuhia ōu whakaaro · Write Your Thoughts
Reflect on your learning. What was the most important idea? What question do you still have?
📋 Teacher Planning Snapshot
Ngā Whāinga Ako — Learning Intentions
Ākonga will understand the core components of Aotearoa's emissions reduction plan, connecting it to the broader climate change context and the 'systemic vs. individual' debate.
Ngā Paearu Angitū — Success Criteria
Success will be evident when ākonga can articulate the plan's goals and sectoral actions, discuss its impact on whānau, and critically evaluate its role in systemic climate action.
Differentiation & Inclusion
Provide sentence starters or graphic organisers for note-taking. Encourage peer discussion for those who prefer oral processing. Extend confident learners by asking them to research specific initiatives mentioned in the plan.
ELL / ESOL: Pre-teach key vocabulary (e.g., emissions, sectors, mitigation). Provide a transcript or subtitles if available. Pair ESOL learners with strong English speakers for support during discussions. Use visual aids where possible.
Inclusion: Ensure all ākonga have access to the video (e.g., headphones, quiet space). Allow varied response formats (written, verbal, drawn). Foster a supportive classroom environment where all contributions are valued, promoting whanaungatanga.
Māori Lens: Emphasise the concept of kaitiakitanga as a guiding principle for the emissions reduction plan. Discuss how the plan's long-term vision aligns with intergenerational responsibility. Explore the role of Māori in climate action and how the plan might support Māori aspirations.
Prior Knowledge: Ākonga should have a basic understanding of what a carbon footprint is and the concept of greenhouse gas emissions, as covered in previous lessons. Familiarity with the 'individual vs. systemic' debate will also be beneficial.
Curriculum alignment
- Science / Pūtaiao: Understanding about Science: Students will investigate the use of scientific knowledge to make sense of the world and to inform decision-making, particularly in areas of environmental sustainability and societal well-being. They will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of scientific explanations and solutions, such as those proposed in Aotearoa's emissions reduction plan.