Legend of Ika-tere Interactive Presentation
Exploring Māori Mythology Year 5 English/Literature Interactive Learning Journey
What is Ika-tere?
Ika-tere means 'drifting octopus' in Māori A legendary giant octopus from Māori mythology Said to live in the deep waters around New Zealand Known for its incredible size and mysterious nature
Vocabulary Building Activity
Match the Māori words to their English meanings Ika = Octopus Tere = Drifting/Floating Moana = Ocean/Sea Taniwha = Water spirit/monster
The Legend Begins
Long ago, Māori fishermen told stories of a massive octopus Ika-tere was said to be as large as an island It could create whirlpools with its tentacles Sometimes helped lost sailors find their way home
Think-Pair-Share: What Makes a Legend?
Think: What elements make a story a 'legend'? Pair: Discuss with your partner Share: Tell the class your ideas Consider: How is a legend different from a fairy tale?
Ika-tere's Powers and Characteristics
{"left":"Could grow to enormous size\nCreated powerful whirlpools\nHad magical healing tentacles\nCould become invisible in deep water","right":"Sometimes rescued drowning sailors\nProtected sacred fishing grounds\nCommunicated through ocean currents\nLeft behind giant shells as gifts"}
Character Analysis Activity
Create a character profile for Ika-tere Physical description Personality traits Special powers Role in Māori culture
The Great Encounter
Comprehension Questions
Short Answer: What does 'Ika-tere' mean in English? Long Answer: How might this legend help explain natural ocean phenomena that Māori people observed? Discussion: What lessons about respecting nature does this legend teach?
Legends and Cultural Learning
Legends teach us about different cultures Māori legends often feature nature spirits Stories explain natural phenomena They pass down important values and beliefs Help us understand respect for the environment