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    Overview

    An introduction to a select Pacific language.

    This paper offers an introduction to Tongan language and culture. It focuses on the main aspects of the Tongan culture as well as basic conversational and written Tongan in the New Zealand context. The emphasis is on an introduction to customs and traditions of the Tongan society, accompanied with language activities of integrated approach to language acquisition on practical survival skills. The students will have a basic understanding of the Tongan culture and develop proficiency in Tongan language skills of speaking, reading and writing in contextual situations.

    About this paper

    Paper title Languages and Cultures of the Pacific: An Introduction
    Subject Pacific Islands Studies
    EFTS 0.15
    Points 18 points
    Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $981.75
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Schedule C
    Arts and Music
    Contact

    tetumu@otago.ac.nz

    Ph: (03) 479 8674

    Teaching staff

    Dr Telesia Kalavite

    Paper Structure

    The paper looks at weekly topics on Tongan language and culture. Each week it is presented in two 50-minute lectures and one 50-minute tutorial on Tongan culture and related language activities of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

    Teaching Arrangements
    • Internal Assessments 60%
    • Final Examination 40%
    Textbooks

    A Tongan/English dictionary is required. There will be a reading list available on Blackboard through e-Reserve.

    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Global perspective, Lifelong learning, Communication, Cultural understanding.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete this paper will be able to:

    • Recognise the link between Tongan history, culture and language
    • Use familiar everyday Tongan expressions in basic conversations
    • Demonstrate the ability to speak, read and write basic Tongan words, phrases and paragraphs
    • Introduce themselves to others and talk/ask questions about their families, friends, classroom, offices, hospitals, weather and the environment
    • Promote the use of Tongan language and culture in a range of contexts

    Timetable

    Semester 1

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    L1 Monday 11:00-11:50 9-13, 15-22
    Wednesday 11:00-11:50 9-13, 15-22

    Tutorial

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend one stream from
    T1 Tuesday 12:00-12:50 9-13, 15-22
    T2 Thursday 12:00-12:50 9-13, 15-16, 18-22
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