Use of Te Reo

During our staff meeting (Septemeber 7th 2010), all staff were asked if they could bring in a bicultural resource to share. I brought in a book I had aquired a few years ago titled 'Tangaroa's gift', a New Zealand story of how the paua got it's colours. This book was written in both Maori and English, showing Maori as a text and reinforcing it's value. Having our discussions about the use of Maori in everyday situations made me think though. I do use simple words and phrases, but it is has always been a part of me and where I am from. I do need to keep in mind that not everyone has the same advantage of being exposed to the culture and language in the same way that I was, and I need to be more overt with the knowledge I have. One goal I have set myself is to write up some simple words and phrases in both English and Maori to share with staff in my room, and begin to make some displays for the room and changing room to encourage more natural use of Te Reo.