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Waka Ama Writing Skills

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Waka Ama Writing Skills

Read each question carefully. Choose or write the best answer. Use NZ English spelling and punctuation.

Sentence Structure and Punctuation

1.Which sentence has commas used correctly?

Before the race, the crew checked their paddles and life jackets.
Before, the race the crew checked their paddles and life jackets.
Before the race the crew, checked their paddles and life jackets.
Before the race the crew checked, their paddles and life jackets.

2.What type of sentence is this? “When the starting signal sounded, the crew pushed off from the shore.”

Simple
Compound
Complex
Fragment

3.Which words in this sentence need capital letters? Select all that apply: “the crew travelled from tauranga to compete on the pacific ocean.”

the
crew
tauranga
pacific ocean
compete

4.Join these sentences into one compound sentence using a comma and a suitable conjunction: “The crew practised their timing. Their coach watched from the bank.”

5.Add commas where they are needed: “After the final lap the tired paddlers lifted their blades and cheered.”

Paragraph Structure

6.Name the three main parts of a well-organised paragraph.

7.Choose the strongest topic sentence for a paragraph about how waka ama can build community connections.

Waka ama crews can strengthen community ties by sharing goals, training and achievements.
Some races begin early in the morning.
A paddle can be made from several different materials.
The crew carried water bottles to the launch area.

8.Read the paragraph. Write the number of its topic sentence. ¹ Crews often plan training sessions around school, work and other commitments. ² Taking part in waka ama requires steady commitment from the whole crew. ³ Regular practice helps paddlers improve their timing and fitness. ⁴ Preparing equipment before each session also saves valuable time.

9.Match each paragraph feature with its purpose.

Topic sentence
Supporting detail
Concluding sentence
Transition word

Explains or gives evidence for the main idea
Introduces the main idea
Wraps up the paragraph’s main point
Shows a relationship between ideas

Writing Practice

10.Write a clear topic sentence for a paragraph explaining one way waka ama could benefit students at school.

11.Write a coherent paragraph of 4–5 sentences about the value of learning waka ama. Include a clear topic sentence, at least two supporting details, a concluding sentence, and correct capital letters and commas.