Watch Moana / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have explored various subjects through the lens of the movie "Moana." They will create art inspired by the film, engage in language learning, understand historical and cultural elements, solve math problems related to the story, and enjoy music and physical activities that connect to the themes of adventure and exploration.

Materials and Prep

  • Paper and colored pencils or crayons for art activities
  • Notebook for writing and language exercises
  • Access to a timer for physical activities
  • Simple math problems related to the story (e.g., counting coconuts, measuring distances)
  • Musical instrument (optional) for music activities
  • Space for physical activities

Before the lesson, watch "Moana" together to familiarize the student with the story, characters, and themes.

Activities

  • Art Activity: Create a Polynesian-inspired artwork. The student can draw or color scenes from "Moana" or design their own island using vibrant colors.

    • Encourage the student to think about the colors and patterns seen in the movie and to express their creativity through their artwork.

  • Language Activity: Write a short story or dialogue between Moana and Maui. The student can use their imagination to create a new adventure or a funny conversation.

    • This will help the student practice their writing skills and expand their vocabulary while having fun with the characters.

  • History Activity: Learn about Polynesian culture and navigation. Discuss how ancient Polynesians traveled across the ocean using the stars.

    • Use this opportunity to teach the student about the significance of the ocean in Polynesian culture and how it relates to "Moana."

  • Math Activity: Create a treasure map with distances to different locations. The student can measure and calculate how far they would need to travel to reach each spot.

    • This will engage the student in practical math applications while relating to the adventurous spirit of the film.

  • Music Activity: Listen to a song from the "Moana" soundtrack and discuss its themes. If possible, the student can sing along or play a simple tune on a musical instrument.

    • This will introduce the student to the musical elements of the film and help them appreciate the cultural significance of the songs.

  • Physical Education Activity: Create an obstacle course that represents Moana's journey. The student can crawl under, jump over, and navigate around obstacles as they pretend to be Moana on her adventure.

    • This will promote physical activity while allowing the student to engage with the story in a fun and active way.

Talking Points

  • Art: "What colors do you think represent the ocean in your artwork?"
  • English: "Let's use descriptive words to make our story exciting!"
  • History: "Did you know that Polynesians used the stars to find their way across the ocean?"
  • Math: "If we have 10 coconuts and we give away 3, how many do we have left?"
  • Music: "What feelings do you think the song expresses?"
  • Physical Education: "How does moving like Moana make you feel?"
  • Science: "Can you name some sea animals that Moana might see on her journey?"
  • Social Studies: "What do you think is important about learning about other cultures?"