This spring, the 7th and 8th grade students travelled across the Pacific to explore the ecology, geology, and culture of the Big Island of Hawaii.  Students snorkeled at various locations to observe reef health, biodiversity, and the relationships between the organisms that live there.  The recent seismic and volcanic activity made the study of volcanoes come to life.

While driving by the closed Volcano National Park, student observed ash eruptions from the Kilauea caldera.  Their study of volcanology also focused on plate tectonics, hot spots, island formation, and identifying different types of lava.

To complete the curriculum trifecta, students visited the ancient sites of Pu’uhonua O Honaunau, Pu’ukohola Heiau, and Lapakahi Historical Site.  At these sacred sites the students learned about ancient traditions, laws, sacrifices, and the ancient Hawaiian way of life.  At Lapakahi the students learned a welcoming chant used by Hawaiians when they entered a neighboring town.

In addition to these amazing experiences, the students worked with the Hawaiian Wildlife Fund to complete a beach clean-up at Pololu Beach.  The students helped to collect over 260 pounds of marine debris while learning about the origins debris and its effects on marine ecosystems.

-Emily Durkin
7/8 Home Room Teacher