Colonialism in Kiribati and the Pacific

Welcome to your WebQuest on colonialism in Kiribati and the Pacific!. In this activity, you will explore the role of explorers in the history of Kiribati, understand what resources they discovered, and learn how these findings impacted the region. By the end of this WebQuest, you will be able to define the term "explorers" and identify key resources found in Kiribati.

Learning Outcomes

1. Define the term "explorers"

2. Identify resources that explorers found in Kiribati

You will work through a series of activities to gather information about explorers who visited Kiribati and the resources they discovered. You will create a presentation or a report summarizing your findings.

1. Understanding Explorers

• Begin by researching what an explorer is. Use reliable sources such as encyclopedia or educational websites.
• Write down a definition of "explorers". Consider their motivations, methods, and impacts on indigenous populations.

2. Exploration of Kiribati

Investigate which explorers visited Kiribati during the Age of Exploration (15th to 17th centuries). Notable figures include:

• Captain James Cook
• Ferdinand Magellan 
• Other European navigators

3. Resources found in Kiribati

Research specific resources that were discovered or utilized by these explorers in Kiribati. Focus on:

• Copra
• Phosphate
• Fish
• Other natural resources

Note how these resources were significant for trade and economic development.

4. Impact of Colonialism

• Reflect on how exploration led to colonialism in Kiribati. Consider both positive and negative impacts on local communities.
• Discuss changes brought about by foreign influence, including cultural exchanges and economic shifts.

5. Presentation of Findings

• Compile your research into a presentation or report format.
• Include sections for definitions, explorers' profiles, resource description, and reflections on colonial impacts.
• Be prepared to share your work with classmates.

Your work will be evaluated based on:

• Clarity and accuracy of definitions.
• Depth of research regarding explorers and resources.
• Quality of presentation (organization, creativity, engagement)

Through this WebQuest, you have learned about the role of explorers in shaping the history of Kiribati and identified important resources that contributed to its colonial past. Understanding these elements helped us appreciate the complexities of historical interactions between different cultures.