Unit 2, Lesson 2: The Aotearoa Wars
A War of Strategy and Sovereignty
Lesson Overview
This lesson reframes the "New Zealand Wars" as a conflict over tino rangatiratanga (sovereignty). Students will analyze the sophisticated military strategies of Māori leaders and understand the wars not as a simple rebellion, but as a calculated defense of land and authority against a colonial power.
Learning Activities
1. Do Now: Video Activity (15 mins)
Begin with the Aotearoa Wars Video Activity. Students watch a short segment and discuss the first critical thinking question about the naming of the wars.
2. Reading & Discussion (20 mins)
Distribute the Strategy of the Aotearoa Wars handout. In groups, students discuss the different strategies (Modern Pā, Guerrilla Warfare, Psychological Warfare) and decide which they think was most effective and why.
3. Exit Ticket (5 mins)
"Explain one way that Māori military strategy challenged the British forces."