Year 1 PE & Health Lesson Plan - Linking Health and Matariki

Curriculum Area: Te Marautanga o Aotearoa (Health and Physical Education - Level 1-2)

Objectives:

• To introduce students to the concept of Matariki and its significance in New Zealand culture.
• To explore the connection between physical activity, health, and the Matariki celebration.

Materials Needed:

• Picture cards of Matariki stars.
• Colored cones or markers.
• Music player.

Lesson Plan:

Introduction (1 minute)

1. Greet the students and introduce the topic of Matariki.
2. Explain that Matariki is a special celebration in New Zealand that signifies the Maori New Year.
3. Show picture cards of Matariki stars and discuss their names and significance briefly.

Physical Activity - Star Jumps (2 minutes)

1. Divide students into three groups using colored cones.
2. Explain that each cone represents a Matariki star.
3. Instruct students to perform star jumps around the designated cone based on the name of the star.
4. Play energetic music to accompany the activity.

Health Connection - Healthy Eating (2 minutes)

1. Gather students together.
2. Discuss the importance of eating healthy foods during the Matariki celebrations.
3. Encourage students to share their favorite healthy foods and why they are good for their bodies.
4. Remind students to choose nutritious snacks when celebrating special occasions.

Closure (30 seconds)

1. Recap the key points of the lesson connecting health and physical activity with Matariki.
2. End the lesson by wishing students well for their own Matariki celebrations.

Assessment:

• Observation: Assess student participation in the physical activity and engagement in the discussion about healthy eating habits.

Additional Resources:

• For more information on Matariki and its cultural significance, visit Te Kete Ipurangi - Matariki.
• Explore healthy eating resources for children at Ministry of Health - Healthy Eating for Children.

This lesson plan is designed to engage Year 1 students in physical activity while promoting awareness of Matariki traditions and the importance of health. It aligns with New Zealand's curriculum in Health and Physical Education, providing a culturally relevant and holistic learning experience for young learners.