Learning Reo is Cool

Rātū 13 Pipiri, 2017

Learning Reo is Cool

New digital resources launched today enlist tamariki in the challenge of making te Reo Māori relevant and accessible.

A series of ten digital puzzles introduces te Reo Māori words and phrases to children aged 3-7 years in a fun and engaging way. Iconic characters Hairy Maclary and Slinky Malinki, mix it up with a friendly Tuatara, a road trip, shopping, and a boil-up. Learning reo is cool!

The puzzles can be accessed for free through www.reopuzzles.online.

The objective is to introduce young New Zealanders to te Reo Māori with a playful approach that encourages ongoing interest; while also capturing whānau’s attention with a positive message that this is a language and culture that is highly relevant to their children’s future. The targeted audience’s language level is receptive audience (beginner 0% to 30%). The targeted audience includes both Māori and non-Māori audiences.

The puzzles were created by technology innovator Kiwa Digital, recognized for its commitment to te Reo Māori and with an international reputation in language revitalization. The company also works with business and government organisations to introduce Te Ao Māori to staff in a positive and helpful way.

The project is funded by Te Māngai Pāho, the New Zealand Government Agency whose role is to promote Māori language and culture by making funds available for the production and distribution of Māori Language content.

Larry Parr, CEO of Te Māngai Pāho says “The aim is to bring the sound and meaning of te reo Māori into everyday classroom and home activities, this reflects and supports the long-held vision of Te Māngai Pāho:-
Ahakoa kei whea, Ahakoa āwhea, Ahakoa pēwhea, Kōrerotia te reo Māori! Māori language - everyday, everyway, everywhere.”

The puzzles will be released weekly over the next month through www.reopuzzles.online. Ideas for extension activities for kura/schools and whānau can also be downloaded and shared.

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