Samoa Year 12 School Syllabus - Samoan

This information is based on Gagana Samoa - Tausaga 12 - Tusi Muamua, published by the Samoan Ministry of Education, Sports, and Culture in 2004.

Unit 1: Formal Language - Narratives

This unit focuses on developing skills in formal Samoan language, particularly in the context of narratives. Students are expected to:

• Manipulate phrases and sentences to express emotions, thoughts, and offer advice.
• Analyze grammar, sentence structure, and paragraph connections.
• Use figurative language and formal speech appropriately.
• Discuss and analyze the formation of new words.
• Improve writing skills through peer review and analysis of published Samoan texts.
• Analyze narratives, focusing on characters, plot, setting, and author's voice.
• Participate in discussions and present arguments supported by evidence.

The unit includes analysis of the narrative “Illaga Ia, O Le Lototele” (Call It Courage), translated by Aiono Fanaafi Le Tagaloa from the original by Armstrong Sperry. Students explore the story's themes, characters, setting (Hikueru in the Tuamotu Archipelago), and the author's use of language.

Unit 2: Research

This unit guides students through the research process in Samoan. The focus is on developing skills in planning, gathering information, analyzing sources, synthesizing information, and presenting findings in a report and seminar format. Students are expected to:

• Manipulate phrases and sentences to express emotions, thoughts, and offer advice.
• Discuss and analyze the formation of new words.
• Use appropriate language for different contexts and audiences.
• Analyze translations and express opinions on Samoan language usage.
• Present research findings in a seminar format.
• Support arguments with evidence and engage in discussions.

The unit provides detailed instructions on preparing a research report and conducting a seminar, including assessment criteria for both. Students are given a choice of research topics related to the Samoan language, including:

• Christian influences
• Media (newspapers or television)
• Seasons
• Health
• Environment
• Government
• Travel

Unit 3: The Arts of Samoan Houses, Boats, and Tattoos

This unit explores the cultural significance of Samoan houses (fale), boats (vaa), and tattoos (tatau). Students are expected to:

• Manipulate phrases and sentences to express emotions, thoughts, and offer advice.
• Analyze grammar, sentence structure, and paragraph connections.
• Use figurative language and formal speech appropriately.
• Discuss and analyze the formation of new words.
• Use appropriate language for different contexts and audiences.
• Participate in discussions, present arguments, and support views with evidence.

• Analyze legends and their connection to language and culture.

The unit includes legends about the origins of boat building and tattooing in Samoa, such as the story of Lata and the story of Funefei and Tagaloalagi. Students also learn about the roles of different craftsmen (tufuga) and the customs associated with these art forms. The unit also covers the vocabulary related to fale, vaa, and tatau, including specific terms for different parts and construction techniques.