Gagana Samoa - Year 11

This course aims to develop students' Samoan language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, covering various aspects of the language and culture. The curriculum is divided into several units, each focusing on different learning outcomes and incorporating traditional Samoan stories, legends, songs, and cultural practices.

Unit 1: Gagana Fa'amauina (Formal Samoan Language)

This unit focuses on developing formal Samoan language skills, including sentence construction, expanding ideas, adapting language use to different contexts, and using figurative language. Students will analyze various literary texts like legends, fables, and songs, exploring themes, characters, and literary devices. They will also learn about Samoan cultural practices and traditions related to storytelling and singing.

• Legends (Talatu'u): Students will study traditional Samoan legends, focusing on their structure, key elements, cultural significance, and the origins of proverbs and idioms. They will analyze characters, settings, plots, and the messages conveyed. An example is the legend of Apaula and Vaatausili, which explains the origin of the proverb "Ua atoa tino o Vaatausili" (Vaatausili's body is complete).
• Fables (Fagogo): Students will explore Samoan fables, focusing on their characteristics, common themes, and the role of the storyteller. They will analyze characters, settings, and the use of figurative language. Examples include the fable of Tafitofau and Ogafau and the story of Sina and Tauveve.
• Songs (Pese): This section uses a song about Siapo (Samoan bark cloth) to illustrate the process of creating a traditional Samoan craft. Students will analyze the song's lyrics, vocabulary, themes, and the cultural significance of Siapo making. They will also explore the role of songs in preserving and transmitting Samoan culture.

Unit 2: Sa'ili'iliga (Research)

This unit focuses on developing research skills, including gathering information, conducting interviews, analyzing sources, and presenting findings in a report. Students will choose a prominent Samoan figure and conduct research on their life, achievements, and contributions. They will present their findings in a written report and an oral presentation.

Unit 3: Ala fa'asalalau fa'aleaganu'u ma le natura (Traditional and Natural Communication Methods)

This unit explores traditional Samoan communication methods and their connection to nature. Students will learn about various methods used in the past, such as the "manu" (village crier) and the "logologo" (messenger), and analyze their significance in Samoan culture. They will also examine natural signs and symbols used for communication.

Unit 4: Faiva o le vao (Bush Crafts)

This unit focuses on traditional Samoan bush crafts, specifically pigeon snaring (seuga lupe) and wild boar hunting (tuliga). Students will learn about the techniques, tools, and cultural practices associated with these activities. They will also analyze the vocabulary and language used in describing these crafts.