Australia and Oceania: Society and Culture

Students learn about the Aboriginal art of Australia. Then they explore the Maori art of New Zealand, writing a description of raranga (weaving) and whakairo (carving). Finally, they choose another aspect of Maori culture, research it, and write a report, which they present to their classmates.

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Here are the teacher pack items for Australia and Oceania: Society and Culture:

Attributions

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Overview:

In this experience, students learn about the Aboriginal art of Australia. Then they explore the Maori art of New Zealand, writing a description of raranga (weaving) and whakairo (carving). Finally, they choose another aspect of Maori culture, research it, and write a report, which they present to their classmates.

Objectives:

Describe Aboriginal and Maori art.
Explain various cultural elements of the Maori.

The art of a culture is deeply connected to its past as well as its present. It often weaves together tradition and values with physical materials that are common to a people or place. In this experience, you will explore the art of the original inhabitants of both Australia and New Zealand.

Objectives:

Describe Aboriginal and Maori art.
Explain various cultural elements of the Maori.

How would you describe this image? Describe at least two stylistic details in it.

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Discuss student responses. Tell students that it is done in the style of Aboriginal art—the art of the first inhabitants of Australia. Explain that they will be exploring more of the art of the Pacific countries in this experience.

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The Complete List of Learning Experiences in Australia and Oceania Unit.