Matariki Star Journey

Learning Focus

Introduce preschool students to Matariki, the Māori New Year, focusing on learning about one star each week for 9 weeks. This sensory-rich, culturally responsive lesson is designed to engage sensory-based learners and those with early literacy skills.

Curriculum Links

Social Sciences

Understand how people remember and celebrate the past (Social Sciences, Level 1)
Recognise how Matariki, and the stars, are taonga tuku iho (treasured gifts) of Aotearoa New Zealand.

English (Oral Language)

Listen actively to stories and explanations.
Use simple language to describe observations and experiences.

Key Competencies

Participating and Contributing: Engage collaboratively in small group activities.
Managing Self: Follow simple instructions and routines.
Relating to Others: Use gestures, words, and expression to share ideas and feelings.

Principles

Treaty of Waitangi: Incorporate Tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori respectfully.
Inclusivity: Provide safe and supportive environments for sensory learners and early literacy students.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the 15-minute lesson, preschool students will:

Recognise and name one Matariki star (starting with Pōhutukawa, for example).
Understand Matariki as a time to celebrate and remember.
Participate in sensory and interactive activities that relate to the star and Matariki traditions.
Use simple English and supportive communication methods to express their learning.

Materials

Large visual star charts or soft 3D star models
Sensory materials linked to each star (e.g., feathers, textured cloth, glitter for sparkle)
Picture book or simple story about Matariki
Calm background music with Māori waiata (optional)
Star stickers for reinforcing participation
A small flashlight or torch for dark/light play

Lesson Structure (15 minutes)

1. Welcome and Introduction (3 minutes)

Greet the students and gather them in a comfortable circle.
Briefly introduce Matariki as a special time in Aotearoa New Zealand when the stars appear to help us remember and celebrate.
Show the star chart or soft star model depicting the star of the week (e.g., Pōhutukawa). Use simple, repetitive language and lots of visuals.

2. Story and Sensory Exploration (6 minutes)

Read a very short, simple story about Matariki linked to the star of the week. Use clear expressions, visuals, and gestures.
Present the sensory item connected to that star (e.g., red feathers or glitter for Pōhutukawa). Allow the children to touch, feel, and explore the material.
Use the small torch to shine light on the star image to create a sense of wonder and connection to the night sky.

3. Interactive Group Activity (4 minutes)

Sing a simple waiata or play music related to Matariki with a strong rhythmic beat. Encourage clapping, tapping, or movement mimicking stars twinkling or rising.
Use star stickers to reward participation and encourage turn-taking.

4. Reflection and Goodbye (2 minutes)

Gather again in the circle for a brief reflection. Use visual prompts or photos to recall the star and Matariki concepts learned.
Use simple questions like "What star did we learn today?" supported with picture cues.
End with a friendly waiata or chant to signal lesson closure.

Assessment & Next Steps

Formatively assess through observation: participation in sensory activities, recognition of star visuals, response to story and music.
Use student responses and engagement to plan follow-up lessons focusing on the next Matariki star in the sequence each week, celebrating all nine stars over nine weeks.
Adapt language and sensory supports based on individual student needs to ensure ongoing accessibility and engagement.

Notes on Adaptation for High ORRS Sensory Learners

Use highly tactile and visual supports consistently.
Keep communication clear, simple, and slow-paced with repetition.
Minimise background distractions during instruction times.
Offer breaks for movement or calming exercises if needed.
Provide small-group or one-on-one support where possible.

This lesson plan embodies the New Zealand Curriculum by integrating cultural knowledge of Aotearoa with intentional, inclusive teaching strategies for early learners and those with sensory needs, promoting engagement and understanding of Matariki as an important part of New Zealand history and identity .