Navigating the Pacific: Polynesian Voyaging
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Navigating the Pacific: Polynesian Voyaging

Grade 8History4 days
This project explores Polynesian voyaging and its impact. Students investigate how Polynesian navigators explored and settled the Pacific, using navigation techniques and understanding their motivations. They analyze the lasting impacts of these voyages on the environment, diverse societies, and the cultural landscape of Oceania. By examining primary and secondary sources, students develop historical arguments and interpretations about this significant period.
Polynesian NavigationExplorationPacific OceanOceaniaCultural ImpactSocietal ImpactEnvironmental Impact
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How did Polynesian navigators successfully explore and settle the vast Pacific Ocean, and what were the lasting impacts of their voyages on the environment, diverse societies, and the cultural landscape of Oceania?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How did Polynesian explorers navigate the vast Pacific Ocean?
  • What were the motivations behind Polynesian exploration and expansion?
  • What impact did Polynesian exploration have on the environment and societies they encountered?
  • How do primary and secondary sources help us understand Polynesian voyages and their significance?
  • What role did Polynesian navigation and exploration play in shaping the cultural, political, and social landscape of the Pacific?
  • What were the key social, religious, and cultural features of Polynesian societies?
  • What significant challenges did Polynesian explorers face?
  • What can we learn from the experiences of both the explorers and the indigenous populations they encountered?
  • How do different historical interpretations shed light on Polynesian exploration?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Understand the navigation techniques used by Polynesian explorers to traverse the vast Pacific Ocean.
  • Analyze the motivations behind Polynesian exploration and the impacts on the environment and societies encountered.
  • Examine the social, religious, and cultural features of Polynesian societies and how exploration influenced these aspects.
  • Evaluate the challenges faced by Polynesian explorers and the solutions they employed.
  • Utilize primary and secondary sources to construct well-supported historical arguments about Polynesian voyages.
  • Interpret diverse historical perspectives and explain their significance in understanding Polynesian exploration.
  • Develop insightful historical questions to guide inquiry into Polynesian exploration and its effects.

Australian Curriculum: History

AC9HH8K12
Primary
The significant social, religious, cultural, economic, environmental and/or political features of different groups in the Asian-Pacific society.Reason: The project explores the social, cultural, and environmental aspects of Polynesian societies, which aligns well with this standard.
AC9HH8K13
Primary
A significant development, event, turning point or challenge that contributed to continuity and change in the Asian-Pacific society.Reason: This project involves studying the challenges and events of Polynesian exploration, thus aligning with the standard focused on significant developments and changes.
AC9HH8K14
Secondary
The experiences and perspectives of rulers and of subject peoples, and the interaction between power and/or authority in the Asian-Pacific society.Reason: The study of Polynesian exploration includes examining the interactions between explorers and indigenous peoples, aligning this project with the standard.
AC9HH8K15
Primary
The role and achievements of a significant individual and/or group in the Asian-Pacific society.Reason: Polynesian navigators are significant individuals whose contributions and achievements are explored, aligning with this standard.
AC9HH8K16
Secondary
Interpretations about the Asian-Pacific society and events, and/or individuals and/or groups connected to the society.Reason: The project involves analyzing various interpretations about Polynesian societies and their explorers, directly linking to this standard.
AC9HH8S01
Primary
Develop historical questions about the past to inform historical inquiry.Reason: The project uses an inquiry framework to guide exploration and questioning about Polynesian exploration, meeting this standard.
AC9HH8S02
Primary
Locate and identify primary and secondary sources to use in historical inquiry.Reason: Students will use historical sources to learn about Polynesian explorers, aligning with this standard.
AC9HH8S03
Primary
Identify the origin, content, context and purpose of primary and secondary sources.Reason: This project requires students to understand and interpret various sources about Polynesian voyages, aligning with this standard.
AC9HH8S04
Secondary
Identify and describe the accuracy and usefulness of primary and secondary sources as evidence.Reason: Students evaluate sources to understand Polynesian exploration, addressing this standard's focus on source evaluation.
AC9HH8S06
Secondary
Identify perspectives, attitudes and values of the past in sources.Reason: Understanding the perspectives of Polynesian explorers and the societies they encountered is integral to the project, aligning with this standard.
AC9HH8S07
Primary
Explain historical interpretations about significant events, individuals, and groups.Reason: The project involves explaining various historical interpretations of Polynesian voyages and their significance, linking to this standard.
AC9HH8S08
Primary
Create descriptions, explanations and historical arguments, using historical knowledge, concepts and terms that reference evidence from sources.Reason: Students will create historical explanations and arguments regarding Polynesian exploration, meeting this standard.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Star Navigation Challenge

Imagine you are adrift in the vast Pacific with only the stars and currents to guide you. Build a basic navigation tool using everyday materials and attempt to chart a course to a nearby island.

Myth & Legend Decipher

Uncover a forgotten story. Research and translate a traditional Polynesian myth or legend, exploring its connections to navigation, societal values, or historical events.

Archaeological Dig

You're an archaeologist uncovering an ancient Polynesian settlement. Analyze artifacts (pictures, replicas, descriptions) to piece together clues about daily life, social structure, and the society's interactions with the environment.

Exploration Impact Debate

Debate the impacts of Polynesian exploration. Form teams to argue the positive and negative consequences of this era for different groups involved, considering social, environmental, and cultural factors.

Museum Exhibit Creation

Design an interactive museum exhibit showcasing a key aspect of Polynesian exploration. This could focus on navigation technology, cultural exchange, or the environmental impact of voyages.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Polynesian Society Investigator

Students will investigate the social, religious, cultural, and environmental features of Polynesian societies before embarking on voyages.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the social structures of Polynesian societies. Explore family units, leadership roles, and social hierarchies.
2. Investigate the religious beliefs and practices of Polynesian societies. Identify key deities, rituals, and the role of religion in daily life.
3. Explore Polynesian cultural practices, including art, music, storytelling, and traditional crafts. Analyze how these practices reflect societal values and beliefs.
4. Examine the ways in which Polynesian societies interacted with their environment. Explore resource management, agriculture, and the relationship between people and nature.
5. Compile your research findings into a comprehensive report, using evidence and examples to support your descriptions.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA research report detailing the key features of Polynesian societies, including their social structures, religious beliefs, cultural practices, and interactions with their environment.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAC9HH8K12, AC9HH8S01, AC9HH8S08
Activity 2

Voyage Motivations & Challenges

Students will explore the motivations behind Polynesian exploration and the challenges faced during these voyages, using both primary and secondary sources.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the various factors that motivated Polynesian exploration, including population growth, resource scarcity, and the spirit of adventure.
2. Locate and analyze primary and secondary sources related to Polynesian navigation and exploration. Examples include navigational charts, oral histories, and archaeological findings.
3. Identify the origin, content, context, and purpose of the sources you have gathered.
4. Investigate the challenges faced by Polynesian explorers, such as navigating by the stars, surviving long voyages, and encountering new environments.
5. Develop a presentation that outlines your research findings, using evidence from your sources to support your claims.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA presentation that explains the reasons for Polynesian exploration and the significant challenges encountered during their voyages.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAC9HH8K13, AC9HH8S02, AC9HH8S03
Activity 3

Exploration Impact Analysis

Students will analyze the impact of Polynesian exploration on the environment and the societies they encountered, evaluating different perspectives.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the environmental impact of Polynesian exploration, including the introduction of new species, changes in land use, and resource depletion.
2. Investigate the interactions between Polynesian explorers and indigenous populations. Explore cultural exchange, trade, conflict, and the spread of knowledge and technologies.
3. Evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of primary and secondary sources related to the impacts of exploration. Consider diverse perspectives and potential biases.
4. Analyze the experiences and perspectives of both the Polynesian explorers and the indigenous populations they encountered. Consider their motivations, values, and attitudes.
5. Write a comparative analysis essay that examines the impacts of Polynesian exploration from multiple perspectives. Support your arguments with evidence from sources.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comparative analysis essay examining the impacts of Polynesian exploration from multiple perspectives, including explorers and indigenous populations.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAC9HH8K14, AC9HH8S04, AC9HH8S06
Activity 4

Polynesian Explorer Profile

Students will research the role and achievements of significant individuals and groups in Polynesian exploration and analyze historical interpretations.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research and select a significant individual or group involved in Polynesian exploration, such as a navigator, chief, or group of settlers.
2. Investigate their contributions and achievements, exploring their skills, leadership, and impact on Polynesian societies.
3. Gather and analyze primary and secondary source materials related to your chosen individual or group. Use these sources to support your historical arguments.
4. Analyze different historical interpretations of their achievements, considering various perspectives and potential biases.
5. Create a multimedia presentation that showcases your research and analysis. Include visuals, audio, and interactive elements to engage your audience.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA multimedia presentation profiling a significant individual or group involved in Polynesian exploration. This presentation should include an analysis of different historical interpretations of their achievements.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAC9HH8K15, AC9HH8S07, AC9HH8K16
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Polynesian Exploration Portfolio Assessment Rubric

Category 1

Historical Understanding and Knowledge

Assesses the student's understanding of Polynesian societies, exploration motivations, environmental and societal impacts, and significant individuals or groups.
Criterion 1

Understanding of Social Structures and Cultural Practices

Evaluates understanding of Polynesian social structures, cultural, religious practices, and how these are influenced by exploration.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates advanced understanding of Polynesian social and cultural structures with insightful connections to exploration influences.

Proficient
3 Points

Shows thorough understanding of Polynesian social and cultural structures with appropriate connections to exploration influences.

Developing
2 Points

Shows basic understanding of Polynesian social and cultural structures with limited connections to exploration influences.

Beginning
1 Points

Limited understanding of Polynesian social and cultural structures with few or no connections to exploration influences.

Criterion 2

Analysis of Exploration Motivations and Challenges

Assesses ability to analyze the motivations driving Polynesian exploration and the challenges faced during their voyages.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides a detailed analysis of motivations and challenges with clear evidence from diverse sources.

Proficient
3 Points

Provides an accurate analysis of motivations and challenges with supporting evidence from a range of sources.

Developing
2 Points

Gives a basic analysis of motivations and challenges with limited supporting evidence.

Beginning
1 Points

Limited or inaccurate analysis with little to no supporting evidence.

Criterion 3

Environmental and Societal Impact Assessment

Evaluates the student's ability to assess the environmental and societal impacts of Polynesian exploration using primary and secondary sources.

Exemplary
4 Points

Effectively assesses impacts using a wide range of evidence, demonstrating comprehensive insight into the effects on both environment and societies.

Proficient
3 Points

Accurately assesses impacts with clear use of evidence, showing good understanding of effects.

Developing
2 Points

Provides a basic assessment of impacts with limited or inconsistent use of evidence.

Beginning
1 Points

Limited assessment with minimal or no supportive evidence.

Criterion 4

Role and Achievements of Significant Individuals or Groups

Examines understanding of contributions made by key Polynesian figures or groups and different historical interpretations.

Exemplary
4 Points

Complete understanding of individual or group contributions, supported with diverse evidence and multiple historical interpretations.

Proficient
3 Points

Thorough understanding of contributions with evidence and some historical interpretation.

Developing
2 Points

Basic understanding of individual or group contributions, with limited historical interpretations.

Beginning
1 Points

Limited understanding with minimal engagement with historical interpretations.

Category 2

Research and Source Analysis

Focuses on the student's ability to effectively use and analyze primary and secondary sources to draw conclusions and support historical inquiry.
Criterion 1

Source Evaluation and Interpretation

Evaluates ability to identify, interpret, and assess the relevance and reliability of primary and secondary sources.

Exemplary
4 Points

Exemplary source evaluation with insightful interpretation of reliability and relevance, showing advanced understanding.

Proficient
3 Points

Accurate evaluation and interpretation of sources, using them effectively to support arguments.

Developing
2 Points

Basic evaluation and interpretation with limited source use.

Beginning
1 Points

Limited evaluation and interpretation with minimal or ineffective source use.

Criterion 2

Creating Historical Arguments and Presentations

Assesses ability to use evidence from sources to create coherent historical explanations and engaging presentations.

Exemplary
4 Points

Creates compelling historical arguments with diverse evidence, presented in an engaging and innovative format.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops well-structured historical arguments with clear evidence and logical presentation.

Developing
2 Points

Provides basic historical arguments with limited evidence and simple presentation format.

Beginning
1 Points

Minimal historical argumentation with weak evidence and unclear presentation.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

Reflect on the inquiry process you undertook to investigate Polynesian exploration. How did the driving question and essential questions shape your research and understanding?

Text
Required
Question 2

How did your initial assumptions about Polynesian exploration change or evolve as you progressed through the project?

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Required
Question 3

What were the most significant challenges you encountered during this project, and how did you overcome them?

Text
Required
Question 4

Which portfolio activity did you find most engaging and why?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Polynesian Society Investigator
Voyage Motivations & Challenges
Exploration Impact Analysis
Polynesian Explorer Profile
Question 5

How effectively did you use primary and secondary sources to support your historical arguments and interpretations?

Scale
Required
Question 6

Evaluate your collaboration and communication skills throughout the project. How well did you work with others, share ideas, and provide constructive feedback?

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Optional
Question 7

What are two key takeaways from this project that you will carry forward into future learning experiences?

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Optional