Whakairo Mastery

Curriculum Area and Level

• Te Marautanga o Aotearoa – Ngā Toi (Arts)
• Level: 8 (Year 13)

Learning Objectives

1. Understand and apply advanced whakairo (carving) techniques.
2. Demonstrate the ability to incorporate kaupapa Māori and Significant Learning into whakairo.
3. Exhibit creative problem-solving skills in the context of whakairo.
4. Reflect on and evaluate their carving process and final product.

Materials Needed

• Carving tools (chisels, mallets, files)
• Wood blocks (suitable for carving)
• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles)
• Reference images of traditional and contemporary Māori carvings
• Sketch pads and pencils

Pre-Class Preparation

• Set up carving stations with all necessary tools and materials.
• Display reference images around the room.
• Ensure safety procedures are clearly posted and discussed before the class begins.

Lesson Plan

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Mihi and Karakia – Start the lesson with a traditional Māori greeting and a short karakia (prayer) to set the tone and focus for the session.

2. Whakatauki Discussion – Introduce the class to a whakatauki relevant to whakairo. For example:

   “Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu.”

   Explain how this saying symbolises the importance of knowledge and preparation in achieving one's potential. Draw connections between this concept and their carving project.

Instruction and Demonstration (15 minutes)

1. Review Basics – Quickly review basic carving techniques to ensure all students are at the same starting point.
2. Advanced Techniques – Demonstrate one or two advanced whakairo techniques. Encourage students to ask questions and participate in a short discussion about these techniques.
3. Kaupapa Māori Integration – Discuss how to integrate kaupapa Māori into their designs. Highlight key elements such as symbolism, storytelling, and traditional patterns.

Hands-On Carving (25 minutes)

1. Design Phase (5 minutes) – Have students spend the first few minutes sketching their designs. Encourage them to think creatively and incorporate elements discussed in the introduction.

2. Carving Phase (20 minutes) – Allow students to start carving. Walk around to provide individual support and feedback. Ensure all students are adhering to safety protocols.

   Tip: Encourage students to work slowly and methodically, focusing on precision and attention to detail rather than speed.

Reflection and Evaluation (10 minutes)

1. Group Discussion – Gather the students and have a short group discussion on how they felt during the carving process. What challenges did they face and how did they overcome them?
2. Peer Feedback – Pair students up and have them provide constructive feedback on each other’s work. Focus on both strengths and areas for improvement.
3. Self-Evaluation – Ask students to fill out a self-evaluation sheet reflecting on what they learned, how they applied new techniques, and their overall performance.

Assessment

• Formative: Continuous observation during hands-on carving and discussions.
• Summative: Final evaluation of the carved piece based on creativity, technique, and integration of kaupapa Māori.

Extension Activity

For students who finish early or want to delve deeper, provide advanced reading materials on the history and significance of whakairo in Māori culture. Encourage them to start planning a more complex carving project for future classes.

Homework

Ask students to research one traditional and one contemporary Māori carver. They should prepare to share a brief presentation on the significance and unique aspects of each carver’s work in the next class.

Closing

Conclude the lesson with a short, reflective karakia, reinforcing the importance of respect and care in their work and the learning environment.

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This highly specific and engaging lesson plan aims to offer Year 13 students in New Zealand an immersive experience in advanced whakairo, aligning with the Te Marautanga o Aotearoa curriculum standards and fostering a deep connection to Māori culture.