Pacific Navigation Quiz

What is “wayfinding”?

• A method of building boats

• A system of star-based timekeeping

• A discipline of navigation using stars and nature

• A type of map used by sailors

What did Pacific voyagers use to navigate the ocean?

• GPS and magnetic compasses

• Road maps and globes

• Stars, currents, clouds, birds, and other natural signs

• Satellites and telescopes

Which sail design helped Pacific navigators sail against the wind?

• Square sail

• Crab Claw sail

• Lateen sail

• V-shaped sail

Why did canoes using crab claw sails need to be wide?

• To go faster in the water

• To carry more cargo

• To keep the sail from tearing

• To prevent capsizing

What is the name of the language group associated with early Pacific voyagers?

• Polynesian

• Austronesian

• Samoan

• Micronesian

Which of the following is NOT a navigation method used by Austronesian voyagers?

• Star positions

• GPS tracking

• Cloud patterns

• Wave movements

What was a likely reason some islands launched voyages to find new land?

• Curiosity about stars

• Overpopulation

• Bad weather

• Poor fishing conditions

What kind of sail was the Crab Claw sail?

• Square with a pole in the middle

• Circular and light

• Triangular with a wide top

• Flat and rectangular

Why did navigators prefer double-hulled canoes?

• They looked more impressive

• They could float better in shallow water

• They were fast and stable

• They were easier to build

What did voyaging canoes carry besides people?

• Gold and jewels

• Firewood and clothing

• Livestock and crops

• Tools and treasure