Genetics and Whakapapa

Cultural Context

This lesson explores the connections between Western scientific understandings of genetics and Māori concepts of whakapapa (genealogy). We acknowledge that these are different but complementary knowledge systems, each with their own validity and importance.

Cultural Safety Note: Discussions about ancestry and genetics can be sensitive. Always approach these topics with respect. Some students may have complex family situations or may not know their biological ancestry. Emphasize that all forms of family and ancestry are valid.

Learning Objectives

Engage: Personal Connections

Whakawhanaungatanga (Building Relationships): Begin by asking students to think about how they define their own identity and ancestry. Provide options for response (written, drawn, or digital).

Questions to prompt thinking:

What stories have you been told about your ancestors?
How does your family track relationships and connections?
What physical or personality traits do you think you've inherited?

Explore: Scientific and Cultural Perspectives

Activity 1: Understanding Basic Genetics

1. Watch this short video on DNA and inheritance (5 min)

2. Complete this interactive Genetics Basics tutorial

3. In pairs, create a simple pedigree chart for a fictional family showing inheritance of a trait (e.g., attached earlobes)

Activity 2: Understanding Whakapapa

1. Watch this explanation of whakapapa (7 min)

2. Examine this Te Ara entry on whakapapa

3. In small groups, discuss: How is whakapapa similar to and different from Western genealogy charts?

Explain: Comparing Knowledge Systems

Feature	Scientific Genetics	Whakapapa
Primary focus	Biological inheritance of traits	Relationships between all things (people, land, spiritual beings)
Evidence	DNA sequences, observable traits	Oral histories, traditional knowledge
Transmission	Chromosomes from parents	Stories, waiata, carvings
Purpose	Understand biological mechanisms	Understand one's place in the world

Case Study: The DNA of Māori Ancestors

Read this article about DNA research on Māori origins.

Discussion questions:

How does this scientific evidence align with traditional Māori narratives about origins?
What are potential benefits and risks of using DNA evidence to study indigenous ancestry?
Who should have control over indigenous genetic information?

Elaborate: Applying Knowledge

Creative Synthesis Task

Choose one of the following options to demonstrate your understanding:

Create a digital presentation comparing genetic inheritance and whakapapa
Write a short story about a character who discovers something unexpected through both DNA testing and whakapapa research
Design an infographic showing how scientific and cultural knowledge can complement each other
Record a podcast interview with an imagined scientist and kaumatua discussing ancestry

Assessment

Students will be assessed on their ability to:

Accurately explain genetic inheritance patterns
Demonstrate understanding of whakapapa as a cultural concept
Compare and contrast the two knowledge systems with sensitivity
Apply knowledge creatively in their synthesis task

Rubric

Criteria	Achieved	Merit	Excellence
Genetic concepts	Basic explanation of inheritance	Clear explanation with examples	Detailed explanation applying to new situations
Whakapapa understanding	Simple description	Explanation showing cultural significance	Insightful analysis of cultural importance
Comparison	Identifies some similarities/differences	Clear comparison showing understanding	Nuanced analysis of complementary perspectives
Communication	Presents information clearly	Engaging presentation with some synthesis	Creative, original synthesis of ideas

Extension Activities

For students wanting more challenge:

Research and debate: Should DNA testing be used to determine iwi affiliation?
Investigate mitochondrial DNA and how it's used to trace maternal lineages
Compare Māori whakapapa with another indigenous genealogy system (e.g., Hawaiian mo'okū'auhau)
Analyze ethical guidelines for genetic research with indigenous communities

Teacher Implementation Guide

Before the Lesson:

Consult with your school's Māori community liaison about appropriate approaches
Prepare alternative activities for students who may find ancestry discussions difficult
Test all digital resources to ensure they work on school devices

Lesson Sequence (3-4 periods):

Period 1: Engage activity and introduction to genetics
Period 2: Whakapapa exploration and comparison activity
Period 3: Case study discussion and begin synthesis task
Period 4: Complete and present synthesis tasks

Adaptations:

Visual learners: Provide graphic organizers for comparisons
ESOL students: Pre-teach key vocabulary, allow use of first language for initial discussions
Students with anxiety: Offer private alternatives to sharing personal family information
Advanced students: Provide extension research questions

Closing Karakia:

Consider ending the unit with a simple closing (optional):

Whakapaingia ēnei akoranga
Kia puāwai ai te māramatanga
Kia hora te mauri ora

(Bless these learnings
That understanding may flourish
May the life force be widespread)

Genetics and Whakapapa: Scientific and Cultural Perspectives