Discover Tonga Reading Text

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📚 Read: Discover Tonga

Tonga is a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It is made up of about 176 islands, but only some of them have people living on them. Tonga is a kingdom, which means it has a king or queen. The capital city is Nukuʻalofa, on the island of Tongatapu.

Tonga is known for its warm weather, clear ocean and beautiful beaches. Many families live close to the sea. They enjoy fishing, swimming and travelling between the islands. Coconut trees grow in many places. Coconuts can be used for food, drinks, oil and weaving.

Family and community are very important in Tongan culture. People show fakaʻapaʻapa, or respect, to elders. Singing, dancing and sharing food are also important parts of celebrations. A traditional Tongan feast is called a ʻumu. Food is cooked slowly in an underground oven using hot stones.

During Tongan Language Week, people celebrate the Tongan language and culture. You might hear someone say “Mālō e lelei!” This means “Hello!” Learning a few words in another language is a great way to show respect and friendship.

1. Where is Tonga?

In the South Pacific Ocean

In the North Atlantic Ocean

In the Indian Ocean

2. What is the capital city of Tonga?

Tongatapu

Nukuʻalofa

Auckland

3. What is an ʻumu?

A traditional underground oven

A Tongan boat

A type of beach