pkrp-about
This activity uses the Tinkercad online design platform to program a three-dimensional scale model of the Matariki cluster of stars, ngā whetū e iwa o te kāhui o Matariki.
Learners will first work with real astronomical data to calculate coordinates for plotting the nine stars of Matariki in three dimensions. They will then use Tinkercad Codeblocks to program a 3D model of the cluster to toggle and explore from every angle!
Dive in to link mathematics, coding, and 3D digital design with the Māori New Year celebration of te putanga o Matariki, the rise of Matariki! Mānawatia a Matariki!
pkrp-dt-detail
ctdt-po2
Using variables to manipulate real-world data
Sequencing instructions and using code blocks
Understanding that changing inputs changes the output
dddo-po2
Using digital tools to design and create a purposeful 3D digital outcome
Making design decisions to achieve an accurate and meaningful result
Evaluating digital outcomes against real-world data
pkrp-cc-detail
maths-stats
Working with measurement, scale, and coordinates in three dimensions
science
Engaging with real astronomical data about the Matariki cluster of stars
social-sciences
Supporting understanding and cultural significance of Matariki
pkrp-diff
Simplify the project by preparing the data and getting the maths out of the way, especially for younger learners, so ākonga need only focus on programming and digital design.
Make the project more challenging by removing the given astronomical data and guiding ākonga to use digital resources to research the data for themselves.
Let ākonga play with colour, shape or other design parameters to help make their celestial model unique.
pkrp-ext
Prompt learners to add the star Puanga (Rigel) to their model. You may provide the astronomical data or challenge them to find it on their own.
Challenge learners to use a spreadsheet program to organise and calculate their data.
Use ‘Message’ Mark Up blocks to include information about each star of Matariki.
Prompt learners to research other stars, clusters or constellations and apply the process to add more stars to their 3D model.
pkrp-supp-materials
[PDF] | Star Map Data Tables
Data Table Worksheets (PDF)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/11d24e8yvwytkhv6MqueZe3JyZwWJDopW/preview
{Spoiler} Data Table Solutions (PDF)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uFX9fXUaEIC3mLRy5Hn0Vkvz7rrWVKkh/preview
[Image] | Example Project
Star Map 3D Model (GIF, link to project)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIoh8GDM6xbqgg_Fs-eZc48LbbfQKsbT/view?usp=drive_link
{External} https://www.tinkercad.com/codeblocks/iKS2UaAB9CR-matariki-star-map
pkrp-notes
Device Preparation as a pre-lesson task.
Group Assignments and logistics, including student collaboration and content focus.
pkrp-dsw
To help make sure device use is safe, supervised, and purposeful throughout. ScratchJr is a closed, tablet-based application with no internet browsing, public sharing, or account requirements in its standard form, making it a lower-risk digital tool. However, here are some things to keep in mind:
Make sure the ScratchJr app is up to date.
Consider turning off internet access during the activity, as ScratchJr does not require internet access once installed.
Remind ākonga to handle tablets with care and to consider what is appropriate language or other contents to include in their project during programming.
For younger learners, particularly Y0-2, make sure all tablet use is directly supervised and that the focus is be on guided interaction rather than independent device navigation.
pkrp-gallery
‘Matariki Star Map’ 3D model prototype project page, in Tinkercad Codeblocks.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gilNQQwPIUrCr_ZYhGVHVpYOS9MvoLM5/view?usp=drive_link
A close-up of the night sky, labelling the stars of the Matariki cluster.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GRCCKlxq-zgv3k23ZX7--HxFZ1aP2nXK/view?usp=drive_link
An animated GIF showing one angle of the star map 3D model.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIoh8GDM6xbqgg_Fs-eZc48LbbfQKsbT/view?usp=drive_link