M.A.J. Class

The 3rd & 4th grade level classes learn the heart of the Hawaiian culture. Because the Hawaiian culture is the focus of the 4th grade Social Studies curriculum, a lot is taught at this level. The students in these classes learn about the geographical features of the different Hawaiian islands, about the different Hawaiian plants and their usage, and about how people of ancient Hawai'i made use of land and sea. They also learn important legends and stories of great ali'i's (kings and queens) who made much impact in the history of Hawai'i. When a student completes the 4th grade, they should by then know a fair amount of knowledge in Hawaiian culture.

Using the kukui lantern analogy, the students not only hear about it, but they also know how to go out and gather the kukui nuts, crack the nuts, and learn to light the actual kukui lantern. They know how to actually construct an ipu kukui.

Students learn the following:
-Each of the eight Hawaiin islands such as their:
                    -climate
                    -topography
                    -terrains
                    -habitats
                    -people lifestyle
-Comparison of the Hawaiian islands with the rest of the world
-Hawaiian myths and legends
-Ancient gods and goddesses
-Ancient Hawaiian environment:
                    -levels of land area & ocean area
                    -moon phases
                    -seasons of the year
-Ancient ahupua'a (land system)
-Ancient farming & fishing
-Usage of ancient plants and resource materials
-Hawaiian History - pertaining to important Hawaiian chiefs, king, queens
-Protocols and traditions of an ancient Hawaiian royal court

Test your Knowledge in the culture:

Go to Hawaiian island Quiz or to the "Do You Know Who" quiz