WEEK 2:
Response to the AS assigned for this year: Reasonable and can be accomplished with a bit of effort.
What do you need to do to prepare for the assessment?: Read and understand the tasks, then ask the teacher if there are any additional questions.
What goals are you setting to achieve in English?: To catch up on work from the first term while doing work in the second term.
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WEEK 3:
Inside Out Quick Placement Test:
Score: 96%
Outcomes Placement Test:
Score: 94%
Money Crossword:
Reflection: I have learnt how to fill in a form properly and the multiple terms used for money.
WEEK 4:
‘A Game of Card’ by Witi Ihimaera – Quiz
WEEK 5:
“A Game of Cards” by Witi Ihimaera is a short story that delves into the importance of family and Maori culture in family. The story revolves around the main character’s Nanny Miro, an influential figure, and her interactions with the rest of the family when playing a game of cards.
The story begins with the main character’s reminiscences of his childhood, recalling the times spent with his Nana and the family’s tradition of playing card games. Nanny Miro is portrayed as a loud and extravagant figure which the author described in terms of different card games such as five hundred, poker, canasta, pontoon, whist, euchre, which serves as a metaphorical representation of her personality and her place within the family.
The act of playing card games itself becomes a symbolic representation of the family’s bond and shared history. The card games serve as a tradition passed down through generations, serving as a means of connecting family members and reinforcing their cultural heritage. Nanny Miro, in her role as a central figure in these games, embodies the family’s collective memories and values.
Throughout the game, Nanny Miro’s character is further revealed through her interactions with other family members, especially Mrs. Heta, a close and beloved friend. Nanny Miro is compared to the game of Poker, suggesting that she possesses a shrewd and cunning nature. This hints at the possibility that she may have her own motives and strategies, which she skillfully conceals beneath her benevolent exterior. ‘Good? Kapai lalelale? And she would sometimes wiggle her hips, making her victory sweeter.’
As the game progresses, the author reflects on the significance of these card games in shaping his understanding of his family’s cultural heritage. The games serve as a conduit for passing down traditions, values, and familial bonds from one generation to the next. Nanny Miro’s role in these games becomes a symbol of cultural continuity, preserving the essence of their Maori identity. ‘For me it was a big treasure house, glistening with sports trophies and photographs, carvings and greenstone, and feather cloaks hanging from the walls.’
The night Nanny Miro died, the interactions between family members during their card games highlight the dynamics of their relationships. Through playful banter, teasing, and collaboration, the story captures the ebb and flow of familial interactions. These exchanges reflect a sense of familiarity, comfort, and mutual understanding that is built over time and shared experiences, showcasing the family and their importance. ‘A pack of cards was found. The old ladies sat around the bed, playing. Everybody else decided to play cards too, to keep Nanny company. The men played poker in the kitchen and sitting room. The kids played snap in the other bedrooms. The house overflowed with card players, even onto the lawn outside Nanny’s window.’
In summary, “A Game of Cards” is a captivating short story that explores the importance of family relationships, the significance of their support, and the power of tradition. Through the metaphorical descriptions of Nanny Miro in terms of card games, the author provides a nuanced portrayal of her character, highlighting her intelligence, resilience, and influence within the family. The story serves as a testament to the enduring bonds that connect generations and shape individual identities. It underscores the idea that family ties, traditions, and the wisdom passed down through generations contribute to an individual’s sense of self and belonging.
WEEK 6:
WEEK 8:
WEEK 10: