Matariki Star Stories

Name:

Date:

📚 Part 1: WALT & Knowledge Check

WALT: We Are Learning To explore the significance of Matariki and identify at least three stars and their stories.

Success criteria: I can name three stars of Matariki; I can say one thing each star represents; I can use te reo Māori vocabulary where possible.

Differentiation: Dyslexia-friendly text and audio summaries are available. Use sentence starters: "Ko __ te ingoa o te whetū..." Advanced learners may add historical context or extra stars.

1. Which of these is a star in the Matariki cluster?

Rigel

Matariki

Polaris

Betelgeuse

2. Which star is commonly connected with food from the ground (vegetables, root crops)?

Tupuārangi

Tupuānuku

Ururangi

Waitā

3. Check all statements that are true about Matariki:

Matariki marks the Māori new year

It is used to help plan food gathering and harvests

Matariki is the name of one of the stars in the cluster

Matariki is the name of a river

4. Match each star (left) with its typical meaning or domain (right). Draw a line between the columns.

A. Tupuānuku

B. Tupuārangi

C. Waitī

1. Food of the sky (birds, tuna)

2. Food of the land (root crops)

3. Freshwater and life in rivers

✏️ Part 2: Short Answers & Creative Map

5. Write three stars of Matariki (use Māori names where you can):

6. Choose one star and write one sentence about its story or significance:

7. Visual mapping: On the space below, draw a simple map of up to four stars you learned and add one symbol or short note for each star (e.g., a fish for Waitī).

8. Extension / Reflection: If you were presenting one star to the class, what short idea would you share? (Advanced learners: include one historical or cultural detail)

Dyslexia-friendly options: Use the audio story files, larger font summaries, and sentence starters. Pair with a learning buddy for reading or presentation support.

Extension activities: Research a ninth star not covered in class and prepare a 1–2 minute oral report. Consider linking the star to a seasonal practice or local kai (food).