Downtown Hilo

Before students went on Fall Break, fourth graders went on two huaka’i. The first huaka’i was to Downtown Hilo. At Mokupāpapa they learned more about our Kupuna islands or the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. At the Pacific Tsunami Museum they learned how natural disasters, like Tsunamis, can reshape an island as well as changing the way of life for people.

Hilo Bay

After Fall Break, fourth graders spent the day at Hilo Bay learning how  to sail and paddle in a double hauled canoe. As part of our migration unit, students experienced navigation in the open ocean, which left students excited and overwhelmed with joy. Because all students could not be out in the water, the rest of the group participated in on shore activities. In our parent led station, students strengthened their observational skill as they observed an object or scene in Hilo One. Then they sketched their observation in their art sketchbook. In Kumu Silva’s station, students learned how Hilo got its name, and they made a bracelet using the Hilo style. In my station, students listened to the several mo’olelo about Mokuola and Wailuku River. Students also went in search of ‘ili’ili on the sandy shore of Hilo Bay. Once we collected ‘ili’ili, students learned how to attempted to learn a hula with their ‘ili’ili.

Much Mahalo to all the parents and lifeguards for keeping our students safe through the day. Mahalo to Uncle Rod and Uncle Wally Wong for teaching our students about wayfinding. Finally, Mahalo to Kumu Silva’s ‘ohana for allowing us to use their halau and wa’a kaulua at Hilo Bay. Also Mahalo to Jenny’s dad, Uncle Bill for the photos!!