Nationalism in Kiribati

Introduction

Nationalism is a strong feeling of belonging to and supporting one's own nation. In Kiribati, nationalism can be seen through our culture, language, traditions, history, national identity, and independence. This WebQuest will help us understand how nationalism developed in Kiribati and why it is important to I-Kiribati people today.

Task

  • What is nationalism?
  • What does nationalism mean in Kiribati?
  • How did nationalism develop in Kiribati?
  • How did colonialism influence nationalism in Kiribati?
  • Why was independence in 1979 important to Kiribati nationalism?
  • How do the Kiribati flag, anthem, language, culture, and traditions show national identity?
  • How can young people show nationalism today?
  • Why is it important to protect Kiribati culture and traditions?

Process

Step 1: Learn the meaning of nationalism.

Step 2: Research the history of Kiribati, including the colonial period.

Step 3: Research Kiribati's independence and its importance.

Step 4: Find examples of Kiribati national identity, such as:

  • The Kiribati flag
  • The national anthem
  • I-Kiribati language
  • Traditional dancing and singing
  • Traditional customs
  • Maneaba and community life
  • Kiribati history

Step 5: Interview an older person, parent, teacher, or community member about what being I-Kiribati means to them.

Step 6: Write your answers in your own words.

Step 7: Share what you learned with your classmates.

Evaluation

Your teacher could assess your work using:

Criteria Marks
Understanding nationalism 10
Research about Kiribati 10
Understanding of national identity 10
Use of reliable sources 5
Clear presentation 5
Total 40

Conclusion

Through this WebQuest, I learned that nationalism in Kiribati is connected to our sense of identity, history, culture, traditions, and independence. Being proud of Kiribati does not only mean loving our country. It also means respecting our culture, protecting our traditions, using our language, helping our communities, and passing our knowledge to future generations.

Credits

The information for this WebQuest was collected from:

  • Kiribati Government – information about Kiribati, its history, and independence.
  • Kiribati Parliament – information about Kiribati’s government and national identity.
  • UNESCO – information about Kiribati culture and heritage.
  • School history books and learning materials.
  • Interviews with parents, grandparents, elders, or community members.
  • Canva – used to design and present this WebQuest.

Thank you to all the people and sources that helped provide information for this WebQuest.

Teacher Page

Topic: Nationalism in Kiribati

Target Students: Year 7–9

Subject: Social Studies 

Time: 1–2 lessons

Purpose:
This WebQuest helps students understand nationalism and how it is connected to Kiribati’s history, culture, traditions, national identity, and independence.

Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:

  • define nationalism in their own words
  • describe different examples of Kiribati national identity
  • explain how Kiribati culture, traditions, history, and independence help develop a sense of national identity.
 

Teacher Role:
The teacher guides students through the WebQuest, provides support when needed, encourages students to use reliable sources, and helps students discuss what they have learned.

Student Activity:
Students research the topic, answer the questions, use the suggested resources, and share their findings with the class.

Assessment:
Students are assessed on their understanding, research, answers, use of sources, and presentation.

Resources:
Students may use books, educational websites, government information, and interviews with elders, parents, or community members.