🌟 Big Ideas
- Ecosystems are networks of interdependent relationships between living things and their environment.
- Kaitiakitanga guides responsible, relational care for local environments.
- Scientific investigation and mātauranga Māori both inform wise action.
🎯 Learning Outcomes
- Describe components and interactions in a local ecosystem.
- Construct and interpret food chains and food webs.
- Explain human impacts and propose kaitiaki actions.
- Collect, organise, and present field data ethically.
📖 Lesson Sequence
1. Kaitiakitanga & Local Ecosystems
Explore kaupapa and map the local ecosystem with iwi place names and histories.
2. Food Chains & Food Webs
Model energy flow and interdependence; consider mahinga kai species.
3. Human Impacts & Kaitiaki Action
Investigate local pressures and draft a culturally grounded action plan.
📊 Assessment
- Field Journal: Ongoing evidence of observation and reflection.
- Food Web Analysis: Demonstrating understanding of relationships.
- Action Proposal: Application of knowledge with kaitiakitanga rationale.
Teacher Note: Use the Cultural STEM Rubric to evaluate science rigour + cultural integration.
🛠️ Resources & Notes
Student Resources
Teacher Notes (PD)
- Open w/ whakawhanaungatanga; align with local iwi/hapū guidance.
- Use Te Whare Tapa Whā to frame learner wellbeing in fieldwork.
- Co-design success criteria with students using the rubric.