Gathering Kōwhai Seeds, also known as Harvesting Kohikohia ngā kākano Kōwhai
In Silverdale Normal School, an exciting project is underway that is inspiring students to connect with their local biodiversity and delve into the fascinating world of kōwhai trees. Tamariki at the school are actively collecting kōwhai seeds and seed pods, marking the beginning of a captivating exploration of their sense of place and science-related possible selves.
This project, which can be used as a stand-alone lesson or as part of a wider teaching/inquiry sequence about mātauranga Māori of kōwhai, offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with the natural world and gain hands-on experience in science. The activity supports student learning in the 'Investigating in science' and 'Communicating in science' strands of the Nature of Science.
Kōwhai seeds provide a tangible and visually stimulating introduction to topics like plant biology, ecology, and conservation. Students can observe seed characteristics, learn about seed treatment techniques for germination, and even try growing seedlings themselves, offering practical experience with life cycle and growth concepts.
The project extends beyond basic seed collection, with students encouraged to engage in biodiversity investigations involving data collection, observing changes, statistical analysis, and contributing to local environmental action. For instance, students might monitor seedling growth, compare survival rates, and relate their findings to wider ecological studies of native species restoration.
Moreover, this project enriches cultural understanding and engagement by connecting to local mātauranga Māori and pūrākau. Students can explore the cultural significance of kōwhai through stories such as Kōwhai and the Giants.
Kōwhai seeds can also inspire creative arts activities, such as making jewelry incorporating seeds, and discussions about sustainable use and conservation, tying scientific inquiry with cultural practices and environmental stewardship.
The Department of Conservation offers helpful information about kōwhai, including growing and caring for kōwhai, and experiencing native trees in green spaces. Chloe Stantiall, who was assisted by researchers Maurice M. W. Cheng and Bronwen Cowie from The University of Waikato, wrote an article about this project as part of the Teaching and Learning Research Initiative project "Envisioning student possible selves in science: Addressing 'plant blindness' through place-based education."
In conclusion, the collection and observation of kōwhai seeds provides a multifaceted learning experience that integrates science, culture, statistics, and creativity, motivating students to explore and take meaningful action in their local environment.
Related Resources: - Identifying native plants - Classifying and identifying plants - Understanding flower parts - Learning about seeds - Exploring pollination and seed dispersal - Attracting pollinators - Letting students look at flowers
[1] Stantiall, C. (2021). Envisioning student possible selves in science: Addressing 'plant blindness' through place-based education. [2] Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Kōwhai. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-plants/native-trees/kowhai/ [3] Kōwhai and the Giants. Retrieved from https://www.tepapa.govt.nz/exhibitions/kohai-and-the-giants [4] Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Attracting native birds to your garden. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/conservation/nature/native-plants/native-trees/attracting-native-birds-to-your-garden/ [5] Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Making your garden a haven for native birds. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/conservation/nature/native-plants/native-trees/making-your-garden-a-haven-for-native-birds/
- This educational project in Silverdale Normal School fosters students' understanding in environmental science and educational self-development, as it encourages them to delve into the world of kōwhai trees, learn about topics like plant biology and ecology, and engage in activities like data collection, statistical analysis, and cultural storytelling.
- Additionally, this project offers a wider perspective for students on learning about seeds, pollination, and seed dispersal, and even provides opportunities for them to grow seedlings and connect with various resources like the Department of Conservation, tying together science, culture, and environmental stewardship.
