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 | Not offered in 2025 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,040.70 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music
- Contact
- More information link
- View more information on the School of Māori, Pacific and Indigenous Studies' website
- Teaching staff
- 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.
- 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
- Assessment details
- Internal Assessments 60%
- Final Examination 40%