While there are many theories of how our ancestors arrived here in Hawai‘i, we are thankful for all of those who have worked so hard and continue to persevere in the preservation of wayfinding heritage. Mahalo nui to the Polynesian Voyaging Society for their drive to prove that our kupuna were in fact intelligent explorers. From the first voyage of the Hokule‘a in 1976 to its most recent travels along with all of the voyaging canoes that it inspired, mahalo to all of the crew members.

We were blessed to spend the day at Hilo One with Uncle Uwao and the Chartrand ‘ohana learning to hoe wa‘a (paddle canoe), mo‘olelo and hula of Hilo, and appreciating the beauty we sometimes take for granted. Mahalo to all of the parents and support staff, who came to support us that day. A special mahalo to Aunty Momi for sharing the hula, Hilo Hanakahi, with the keiki after they found their ‘ili‘ili.

Once we had learned about how our islands came to be, the question was now where did our kupuna come from? In our study of the migration of our kupuna from the south pacific, the keiki then began tracing their path through the Polynesian islands. Working in groups, they conducted research on different aspect of each island group in our Pacific Island Project. Cooperation and collaboration were essential to the success of this project. While many of them will say that it was hard work, I believe they completed and presented their learning with great pride. I am so proud of them all!

A while back we had the opportunity to visit the Mokupapapa Learning Center in downtown Hilo. Part of our study in geography is the study of island formation and the location of our archipelago. Students worked in pairs to complete a scavenger hunt and to create a limu pressing.

Who is Pele? Where is Pele? Why is she included in our study of Island Formation? After reading the story told by Pua Kanahele, Pele, watching the video below, and learning our hula, Kilauea, we should be able to answer the questions above.

Who is Pele?

As we move through our study of our Origins and Island Formation, we have learned the story of sky father and mother earth and the birth of our islands. This is the story that continues on to answer the question, “Where is Haloa?” Here is a video to help strengthen your understanding. Mahalo to Kamehameha Schools Publishing.

Haloa (Papa Me Wakea)

We have begun looking at different perspectives of how we came to be and how our islands were formed. Earlier in the month, we started talking about the Kumulipo, a Hawaiian creation chant. We read an abrigdement of the first section of the Kumulipo by Richard Lewis, In the Night, Still Dark, as in introduction to our unit. The Kumulipo is a genealogical chant that connects us to those who came before us, as well as to the land and the sea. I have attached a wonderful video for your review of the Kumulipo. Please be sure to read the assignment after the video.
What is the Kumulipo?

Think about where you come from or where you live. Think about the plants and animals that live there or near to your home. Which plant or animal do you connect with the most? In other words, which plant or animal best represents you? Click “Leave a comment” and explain what you chose and why you chose it. Please be careful to reread your comment before posting.