Puutaiao - Maaori Curriculum

Achievement Objectives for Astronomy

The Puutaiao curriculum comprises four strands and three general aspects of science.
The three generic characteristics or aspects of science are:

  • Science Investigations/Ngaa Momo Taahuratanga Puutaiao?
  • Science Literacy/Te Reo Matatini o te Puutaiao?
  • Uses of Science/Te Whakamahinga o te Puutaiao?.

Study of these scientific aspects is integrated into the topics in the three strands:

  • The Natural World/Te Ao T?roa
  • The Physical World/? Ahup?ngao
  • The Material World/? Kawekawe

There is a fourth strand, namely: 

  • Ngaa Tautake Puutaiao me ngaa Koorero-o- Mua/Philosophy and History of Science

There are four sections in this strand:

  • The Organism/Te Rauropi?
  • The Biological Environment/Te Taiao
  • Earth Science/Papat?-?-nuku
  • Astronomy/Ranginui

Aims of Puutaiao

Develop understanding of the cycles and interactions of space objects, from this world to the stars.

Discuss ideas about the Sun and the Moon and their effects on the Earth.

Learn about the parts of the solar system, including the planets and their moons, with a developing understanding of the distances involved, and the factors relating to space exploration.

Investigate how geological, atmospheric and astronomical cycles, over time, gradually alter the conditions supporting life on Earth.

Explain how technologies (such as types of telescopes, satellites and spacecraft) are used in studying and exploring the solar system and the universe, and the spatial relationships that impact on the Earth.

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