Samoan Language Week
Last week was the celebration of Samoan Language week which gave us the opportunity to explore and celebrate the culture and language of Samoa. Te Awa Īta were extremely lucky to have some help with this, provided by Jessie and her Mum. We all practised our Samoan pronunciations and even got to try on some of Jessie's beautiful Samoan dresses! We can't wait to keep using our Samoan words in the classroom.
On Friday May 29, 2020 Joseph’s mother, brother and grandad came to visit the Te Aroha students. The children were enjoying their last day of Samoan Language Week and Joseph’s grandad, David had come in to share some interesting information about life in Samoa.
The junior students heard that David first came to New Zealand in 1964, which is many years ago. Joseph’s grandad (whom his grandchildren call ‘Tama’) showed some intriguing black and white framed photos of himself when he was a child with his mother. David explained that it is quite hot in Samoa and that often men wear a lavalava tied around their waists and go bare-chested.
Patrick, Joseph’s younger brother, showed everyone some beautiful Samoan necklaces and these were passed around. Joseph held up an elegant Samoan tapa pattern which he had brought from home to show everyone.
The junior students were keen to share what they have learned during Samoan Language Week and David looked impressed with all the work they have been doing. Miriama, Joseph’s mother, read a story about White Sunday to the students to conclude the visit. Thank you so much to David, Miriama, Patrick and Joseph for this wonderful visit. The students absolutely loved it!
