To inspire their taonga writing students had a homework challenge. Their challenge was to collect images or items (rather than actual precious things) that represent what is important to them (their taonga). To further the challenge, all items collected had to fit inside a small paper bag. Students had to explain how the items and images collected represented what was important or valuable to them.
Students came up with a variety of creative responses. We had fur, pet food, and nails to represent our pets. Nail clippers, coffee beans, and horse shoes to represent family members. Photographs and small plastic toys were also popular representations of our taonga.
The next step was to write our taonga reports. The writing took place over a number of sessions as we unpacked the structure of an explanation.
Learning Intention: follow a writing structure
Success Criteria
- My introduction includes an explanation as to what a taonga is
- I have used a graphic organiser to group my taonga into three groups of similar ideas.
- I have used sequence language: firstly, secondly, and thirdly, to introduce my three different taonga groups
- I have explained why each of my items is important.
- I have finished my writing with a conclusion. My conclusion includes my thought and feeling about taonga
After we completed the writing process we published our taonga reports on google slides to share with our community. We hope you enjoy reading them and make connections to some of our ideas about what we value and what makes us who we are.
Every child deserves to feel valued, respected, and genuinely cared for by their teacher. Creating a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and confident to learn is at the heart of my teaching practice.
I have a passion for all areas of learning, with a particular enthusiasm for mathematics. I enjoy supporting students to make meaningful connections between mathematical ideas, recognise patterns, and develop a deep understanding of how our number system works.
In my classroom, students are encouraged to be brave, collaborative, and open to new challenges. It is a space where taking risks is celebrated, reflection is valued, and success, big or small, is recognised.
Outside of school, I enjoy mountain biking and staying active with my energetic dog, which helps me bring energy and balance to a busy classroom environment. Supporting students to grow, learn, and thrive is at the centre of everything I do, and I am excited to continue this journey at Wairakei Primary School.
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