Ancestry Inquiry

What are the most likely factors in my ancestors’ decision to immigrate to NZ?

How did these contribute to my identity and who I am today?

How has migration contributed to a New Zealand sense of identity?

Part 1

Present a family tree for at least five generations of your ancestors, in any format you like.

Include dates and places of birth, death and marriage (if known).

Part 2

Find out as much information as you can about one of your ancestors who immigrated to New Zealand. If your ancestors are Maori, then find out as much as you can about your ancestor’s Iwi and canoe.

Part 3

Find out what it was like where your ancestors came from. Compare and contrast the country they were leaving with what was being offered in New Zealand. Vague statements or guesses aren’t enough. Every statement you make must be supported by evidence you have found. Offer a possible explanation, supported by evidence, why you ancestors decided to leave their homeland.

Part 4

Present your finding to your class.  Tell your family’s migration story and what pushed them from their country of origin and pulled them to New Zealand.

Extension: Create a Google Earth tour or use Google Tourbuilder for your ancestors journey to New Zealand. See Google Earth showcase for some ideas.

Part 5

Write formal reflections describing what you felt you did well, what new skills you have learned, and what needs more practice. Post these reflections on your blog.

Note:

Chances are your family will be a great source of information.  If you ask enough people in your extended family you are bound to find someone that has already done some genealogy work.  Cast the net wide; you may need to ask uncles, aunts, or grandparents.  Someone will enjoy having the opportunity to talk to you about where you come from.

Applicable Standards

Digital Technologies:  1.4 (AS91880) Develop a digital media outcome (4)

Geography: 1.6 (AS91012) Describe aspects of a contemporary New Zealand geographic issue. (3 credits  Internal)

English: 1.5 (AS90053) Produce formal writing. 3 credits  Internal

taken from the Ministry of Education Integrated Learning project Google Site