Atua Explanation Writing Structure Guide

Year 4 Social Studies Learning to write about Māori atua Understanding structure and purpose

What is an Atua?

Atua are Māori gods and spiritual beings They control different parts of nature Each atua has special powers and responsibilities They are important in Māori culture and stories

Meet the Five Atua We'll Study

Tāne Mahuta - atua of the forest Tangaroa - atua of the sea Tāwhirimātea - atua of wind and weather Ruaumoko - atua of earthquakes and volcanoes Tū - atua of war and people

What is Explanation Writing?

Explanation writing tells us HOW and WHY something happens or works It uses facts and clear structure It helps others understand important topics

Explanation Writing Structure

Model Example: Tāne Mahuta

INTRODUCTION: Tāne Mahuta is the atua of the forest PARAGRAPH 1: He separated Ranginui and Papatūānuku so light could enter the world PARAGRAPH 2: Tāne is a kaitiaki because he protects the trees and birds CONCLUSION: He reminds us to care for the forest

What Makes a Good Kaitiaki?

{"left":"Protects their domain\nCares for all living things\nTeaches people to respect nature","right":"Guards against harm\nMaintains balance\nShows responsibility"}

Choose Your Atua Activity

Look at the five atua options Think about which one interests you most Consider what you already know about their domain Choose one to write your explanation about

Planning Questions

Who is your chosen atua? What is their main job or domain? How do they protect and care for their domain? Why are they important to Māori people and to us today?

Writing Success Tips

Start each paragraph with your main idea Use facts about your atua Explain HOW they are a kaitiaki with examples Connect their importance to today's world Check your structure matches our model