Watching Disney’s Moana

English Language Arts

• The child may have improved their listening and comprehension skills by following the story and dialogue in the movie.
• They may have learned about character development and storytelling by observing how the main character, Moana, grows and changes throughout the film.
• The child may have gained vocabulary and language skills by encountering new words and phrases in the movie.
• They may have developed their imaginative and creative thinking by exploring the mythical world of Polynesian culture portrayed in the film.

History

• The child may have learned about Polynesian history and culture by being exposed to the setting and traditions depicted in the movie.
• They may have gained knowledge about the role of wayfinding and navigation in ancient Polynesian societies.
• The child may have developed an understanding of the importance of oral storytelling and mythology in preserving cultural heritage.
• They may have learned about the concept of colonization and its impact on indigenous communities.

Social Studies

• The child may have gained awareness and appreciation for cultural diversity by being exposed to Polynesian traditions and customs.
• They may have learned about the importance of community and collaboration in achieving common goals.
• The child may have developed empathy and understanding towards characters who face challenges and adversity.
• They may have learned about the value of environmental conservation and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

Continued development can be fostered by encouraging the child to engage in activities related to the movie. For example, they can write their own adventure story inspired by Moana, research more about Polynesian history and culture, or create artwork depicting the movie's characters and settings. Additionally, discussing the themes and lessons learned from the movie can help deepen their understanding and encourage critical thinking.

Book Recommendations

• "The Story of Moana: A Tale of Courage and Adventure" by Kari Sutherland: This book retells the story of Moana in a simplified and age-appropriate manner, allowing the child to revisit the movie's plot and characters.
• "Polynesian Legends and Myths" by A. R. Kapua'ala: This book introduces children to traditional Polynesian stories and legends, providing further insight into the culture and mythology showcased in the movie.
• "Moana: The Mighty Maui Makes a Friend" by Andrea Posner-Sanchez: This book focuses on the character Maui, exploring his backstory and adventures, which can deepen the child's understanding of the movie's characters and their relationships.