In Year 9 students are at Emergent Communication level.

“Learners can understand language that contains well-rehearsed sentence patterns and familiar vocabulary, and can interact in predictable exchanges. They can read and write straightforward versions of what they have learnt to say. They are aware of and understand some of the typical cultural conventions that operate in interpersonal communication. Learners are developing an awareness of the language process.”  

(Levels 1 and 2 of the DRAFT: Maori in the New Zealand Curriculum :22 - 43 )