Year 10 Technology Lesson Plan: Creating a Simple Game Based on Matariki

Overview

This lesson plan is designed for Year 10 students in a New Zealand classroom to learn about the cultural significance of Matariki and apply their knowledge to create a simple digital game. The lesson adheres to the New Zealand Curriculum standards for technology (Technology in the New Zealand Curriculum, link to NZ Curriculum) and integrates aspects of cultural understanding through Matariki, the Māori New Year.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:
1. Understand the significance of Matariki in Māori culture.
2. Apply basic principles of game design and development.
3. Create a prototype of a simple game that reflects the themes of Matariki.

Materials Needed

- Computers with internet access and game development software (e.g., Scratch or Unity)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Resource materials on Matariki (e.g., books, articles, websites)
- Design templates and storyboard sheets

Lesson Duration

60 minutes

Curriculum Links

- Technology: Levels 4-5, Technological Practice and Technological Knowledge
- Social Sciences: Understanding how cultural interactions impact on cultures and societies

Lesson Plan

Introduction (10 minutes)

Activity:
- Teacher Presentation: Start with a brief introduction to Matariki, explaining its significance as the Māori New Year, which marks the arrival of the Pleiades star cluster in the sky. Discuss the traditions and activities associated during this time such as remembrance, celebrating the present, and planning for the future.
- Discussion: Ask students what they know about Matariki and share any personal experiences or stories.

Exploration and Research (10 minutes)

Activity:
- Divide students into small groups and assign each group to research different aspects of Matariki (e.g., historical significance, contemporary celebrations, astronomical aspects).
- Provide resources and direct students to relevant websites such as Te Papa's Matariki webpage.

Game Design Basics (10 minutes)

Activity:
- Teacher Presentation: Introduce basic game design principles – game objectives, rules, interaction, challenges, and rewards.
- Show examples of simple games and discuss what makes them engaging.

Game Development Workshop (25 minutes)

Activity:
- Group Activity: Using the research conducted and principles learned, each group will brainstorm and design a simple game that educates and celebrates Matariki. Students should draft their game idea using a storyboard or design template.
- Encourage the use of symbolic elements of Matariki such as stars, harvest, and renewal themes.
- Groups will use Scratch or another simple game development platform to start creating their game prototype.

Conclusion and Sharing (5 minutes)

Activity:
- Invite each group to share their game prototype idea with the class.
- Discuss how these games can help spread knowledge and appreciation of Matariki.

Assessment

- Assess student engagement and participation in group discussions and activities.
- Evaluate the game prototypes based on creativity, relevance to Matariki, and incorporation of game design principles.

Extension Activities

- Students can refine their games based on feedback and prepare a presentation for a school-wide Matariki celebration.
- Explore more advanced game development software and techniques to expand on their initial prototypes.

By integrating cultural education with technology, this lesson plan provides a comprehensive learning experience that respects and celebrates New Zealand's unique heritage while fostering technological skills.