Syllabus bites: The Polynesian expansion

Syllabus links

Stage 4 - Depth study 5: The Asia Pacific world

This resource addresses outcomes and content in the Board of Studies NSW Syllabus for the Australian Curriculum in History K–10. It provides an overview of content and examples of lesson activities that relate to Stage 4 - Depth study topic 5c: The Polynesian expansion across the Pacific (c. AD 700-1756)

A student:

  • describes the nature of history and archaeology and explains their contribution to an understanding of the past HT4-1

  • describes major periods of historical time and sequences events, people and societies from the past HT4-2

  • describes and explains the causes and effects of events and developments of past societies over time HT4-4

  • uses evidence from sources to support historical narratives and explanations HT4-6

  • identifies and describes different contexts, perspectives and interpretations of the past HT4-7

  • uses a range of historical terms and concepts when communicating an understanding of the past HT4-9

Polynesia

  • Identify the geographic extent and natural features of Polynesia.

  • Outline theories about the origin and spread of Polynesian settlers throughout the Pacific.

  • Locate the Pacific regions settled by the Polynesians.

  • Describe everyday life in ONE Polynesian society (the Maori) during this period. Work and enterprise Difference and diversity

  • Describe key political features of ONE Polynesian society. Civics and citizenship Intercultural understanding

  • Explain key economic activities of ONE Polynesian society. Work and enterprise

  • Using a range of sources, describe the cultural achievements of ONE Polynesian society, such as the role of the ariki in Maori society. Intercultural understanding Literacy Information and communication technology capability

* The answer for activity 3 in the Maori evolution activities is ‘b’. The great advantage of that site is its height as well as its proximity to the coast for food and transport.