Origins of Tā Moko

Curriculum Area: Visual Arts (NCEA Level 1)

Duration: 60 minutes

Year Level: Year 11

Class Size: 12 students

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

• Understand the story of Mataora and Niwareka and its significance in the origins of tā moko.
• Conduct a research exercise to deepen their understanding of the historical and cultural aspects of tā moko.
• Create an initial tā moko-inspired drawing, applying their research to artistic expression.

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Lesson Structure

Introduction – 10 minutes

Engagement & Context Setting

1. Whakataukī to Set the Tone

   • Write the following whakataukī on the board:
     “Ko tōku nui, tōku wehi, tōku whakatiketike, tōku moko.”
     (My greatness, my fear, my pride, my tattoo.)
   • Discuss its meaning and ask the students what they already know about tā moko.

2. Storytelling – The Legend of Mataora & Niwareka

   • The teacher orally shares the story of Mataora and Niwareka, using expressive storytelling and visual aids (such as printed images or illustrations).
   • Discuss how this story represents lessons about humility, knowledge, and the origins of tā moko as an art form.

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Research Activity – 20 minutes

Deepening Understanding Through Inquiry

1. Guided Research

   • Each student will be provided with a worksheet containing key research questions:
     • What does tā moko symbolise within Māori traditions?
     • How did traditional tā moko differ from modern tattooing?
     • What are the roles of whakapapa (genealogy) and mana (prestige) in tā moko?
     • How does tā moko differ between tāne (men) and wāhine (women)?
   • Students will use curated books, class-provided articles, and visual references to gather information.

2. Paired Discussion

   • Students pair up and share one key insight from their research.
   • The teacher facilitates a brief discussion, ensuring students connect cultural and historical perspectives.

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Drawing Activity – 25 minutes

Applying Historical Knowledge to Visual Arts

1. Designing a Symbolic Tā Moko Pattern (20 minutes)

   • Students create a rough sketch inspired by the story of Mataora and Niwareka. Using the knowledge they have gained, they should incorporate meaningful symbols reflecting themes such as:
     • Transformation & learning
     • Connection to whakapapa
     • Honour & redemption

2. Peer Reflection & Feedback (5 minutes)

   • Students present their initial sketches in small groups. Each student gives and receives constructive feedback based on:
     • Symbolism and meaning
     • Connection to the origins of tā moko
     • Artistic elements (line, form, balance)

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Conclusion & Reflection – 5 minutes

• Students write a short reflection in their sketchbooks, responding to the question:
  What did today's lesson teach me about the importance of tā moko in Māori culture and history?
• The teacher provides closing remarks, reinforcing the depth and richness of tā moko as an art form rooted in whakapapa.

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Assessment Criteria

Students will be informally assessed based on:
✔ Engagement in research and discussion
✔ Thoughtfulness and understanding in their initial sketches
✔ Reflection demonstrating deep thinking about tā moko’s historical and cultural significance

Next Steps: In the next lesson, students will refine their designs, exploring how tā moko influences contemporary Māori artists.

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This lesson integrates mātauranga Māori, critical thinking, and visual arts practice, ensuring students gain a deep and meaningful understanding of tā moko while applying their knowledge creatively. The combination of storytelling, research, and hands-on drawing provides multiple entry points for engagement, making the lesson highly interactive and culturally responsive.