Transition Insights

Introduction (1 minute)

1. Karakia/Whakatauki: Begin the lesson with a short karakia (Māori prayer) or whakatauki (proverb) to set a positive tone.
   • Example: "Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei" (Seek the treasure you value most dearly: if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain).

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how transitioning from one classroom to another affects students and their whanau.
• Discuss and collect data using a simple questionnaire.

Curriculum Area and Level:

Curriculum Area: Social Sciences Level: 1

Activity Overview

The main activity is to engage the students in a discussion about their feelings and experiences when transitioning between classes. They will then participate in filling out a simple questionnaire.

Key Competencies:

• Thinking: Discuss thoughts and feelings.
• Participating and Contributing: Sharing personal experiences.
• Relating to Others: Understanding and appreciating others' perspectives.

Materials Needed:

• Chart paper
• Markers
• Simple paper questionnaires for each student

Activity Breakdown

Introduction and Discussion (4 minutes):

1. Initiate Discussion:

   • Ask students how they feel when they move from one class to another.
   • Encourage them to share any positive or negative experiences.

2. Record Responses:

   • Use chart paper and markers to jot down common themes and feelings described by the students.

Questionnaire Activity (4 minutes):

1. Explain the Questionnaire:

   • Introduce the students to a simple questionnaire designed to collect data on their transitioning experiences.

2. Distribute and Guide:

   • Hand out the questionnaires and guide the students through each question.
   • Questions could include:
     • How do you feel when you move to a new class? (Happy, Nervous, Excited, etc.)
     • What is your favourite part about changing classes?
     • What is your least favourite part?
     • Does your whanau help you with the transition? If yes, how?

3. Collect Responses:

   • Allow students a minute or two to complete their responses.
   • Collect the completed questionnaires.

Conclusion (1 minute):

1. Reflect on the Activity:

   • Thank the students for their input and emphasise the importance of their feelings and experiences.
   • Briefly discuss how the information gathered will help in making transitions smoother for everyone.

2. Final Karakia/Whakatauki:

   • End the session with another short karakia or whakatauki to foster a sense of closure and community.

He aha te mea nui o te ao? 
He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
(What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, it is the people, it is the people.)

Assessment/Follow-up:

• Review the questionnaires to identify common themes and areas of concern.
• Use the data to plan any necessary changes or supports for future class transitions.

By engaging in this brief but insightful activity, students and teachers will gain valuable insights into the transition process, helping to improve experiences for both current and future students. This also aligns with New Zealand's emphasis on incorporating student voice and whanau perspectives into educational practices.