Chasing Coral
“We made Chasing Coral to invigorate discussions around climate issues and activate youth to be a part of the solution. Below you’ll find five resources...
Overview
Whale Rider tells the story of a Māori girl who challenges generations of cultural tradition and assumptions about gender. Introduce students to Aotearoa / New Zealand and Māori culture, with lessons and class activities across the curriculum.
Literary Connection
For a film-book pairing, teach the Whale Rider movie with the book it was based on, The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera.
- Lesson Grades: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Ages: 13–17, 18–24, 25+
Common Sense Media rates this film as appropriate for ages 13+Excellent, gorgeous Māori drama has uplifting messages.
Where to Watch
Watch it on Amazon and other streaming platforms. Or buy the Blu-ray or DVD.
Curriculum Guide
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Lesson 1: Who Are the Maori?
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Lesson 2: Viewing Whale Rider
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Lesson 3 The World Outside, The Spirit Within
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Lesson 4: Māori Roles and Relationships
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Lesson 5: Insights Into Māori Culture
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Lesson 6: Culture and Gender
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Lesson 7: Special Effects and Music
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Lesson 8: Echolocation
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Lesson 9: Counting the Uncountable
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Lesson 10: Markings of the Māori
Group Discussion Facilitation Guidelines
These tips can help you create safe space for classroom engagement on the themes and subjects of this film.
Glossary of Film Terms
The Glossary of Film Terms is useful for the Film Literacy lessons that are part of this curriculum guide.
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