Samoa Year 5 Curriculum - Samoan

The Samoa Year 5 Curriculum for Samoan, as indicated by various sources, focuses on developing communicative competence in the Samoan language. While specific Year 5 documents are not readily available online, the available resources provide a general overview of the curriculum's aims and structure.

Curriculum Overview:

The Samoan curriculum emphasizes the connection between language and culture (fa'asamoa). It prioritizes spoken language development as a foundation for reading and writing skills. The curriculum aims to create immersive learning environments where learners communicate in Samoan with each other and the teacher, using the language for authentic purposes. The curriculum also recognizes the importance of family, church, and the Samoan community in supporting language learning.

Key Features:

• Gradual Bilingualism: In the Samoan education system, the early years prioritize Samoan language instruction. English is gradually introduced, with a transition towards English as the primary language of instruction in later years.
• Curriculum Statements: The Ministry of Education and Culture provides curriculum statements for various subjects, including Samoan. These statements outline the aims, learning strands, and achievement objectives for each subject.
• Focus on Communicative Competence: The curriculum emphasizes interactive, communicative, and experience-based learning. Learners are encouraged to participate in a range of activities that promote authentic communication in various contexts.
• Integration of Culture: Cultural learning (fa'asamoa) is an integral part of the Samoan curriculum. Learners explore Samoan customs, traditions, and values through language learning activities.

Learning Strands (NZ Curriculum - Adaptable to Samoa Context):

The NZ Curriculum for Samoan, which can be adapted to the Samoa context, outlines several learning strands that progress through different levels. While specific Year 5 details for Samoa are unavailable, the NZ curriculum provides a framework that likely aligns with the Samoa Year 5 curriculum. These strands include:

• Oral Language (Listening and Speaking): Developing listening comprehension and speaking skills for various purposes, including everyday conversations, storytelling, and formal interactions.
• Written Language (Reading and Writing): Developing reading and writing skills, starting with emergent literacy and progressing to more complex texts and writing genres.
• Visual Language: Understanding and interpreting visual language, including symbols, imagery, and body language, particularly in cultural performances and art forms.
• Cultural Learning: Exploring Samoan culture, customs, and traditions through language learning activities.

Assessment:

Assessment in the Samoan curriculum is designed to be ongoing and informative. It involves a range of methods, including teacher assessment, peer assessment, and self-assessment. The focus is on providing feedback to improve learning and recognizing individual progress.