Unit 3, Lesson 1: Dual Knowledge Systems Foundation
Understanding Traditional Māori Science & Modern STEM as Complementary Ways of Knowing
Students explore how traditional Māori science and modern STEM represent different but equally valid approaches to understanding the natural world, setting the foundation for integrated learning throughout the unit.
Lesson Overview
Duration
60 minutes
Year Level
Years 8-10
Curriculum Areas
Science, Social Sciences, Te Reo Māori
Karakia & Cultural Opening (5 minutes)
Opening Karakia
"Kia hora te marino, kia whakapapa pounamu te moana
Kia tere te karohirohi i mua i tō huarahi"
May peace be widespread, may the sea be like greenstone
May the shimmer of light guide you on your path
Cultural Context Setting
Today we begin a journey of understanding two powerful ways of knowing our world. We approach this learning with respect for the wisdom of our tīpuna (ancestors) and excitement for modern discoveries, recognizing that both have gifts to offer our understanding.
Ngā Whāinga Ako - Learning Objectives
Knowledge & Understanding
- Understand that traditional Māori science and modern STEM are both valid ways of understanding the natural world
- Identify key characteristics of each knowledge system
- Recognize the cultural values and protocols that guide traditional knowledge sharing
- Explain how different approaches can reveal different aspects of natural phenomena
Skills & Application
- Compare and contrast different approaches to understanding natural phenomena
- Demonstrate respectful engagement with traditional knowledge systems
- Practice integrating different types of evidence and understanding
- Develop cultural competency in discussing indigenous science
Hook Activity: Two Ways of Seeing (10 minutes)
The Weather Prediction Challenge
Scenario: You need to predict tomorrow's weather. You have access to two different approaches:
Traditional Approach
- Cloud formations and movement patterns
- Wind direction and strength changes
- Animal behavior observations
- Plant responses to atmospheric pressure
- Sea and tide patterns
Modern Approach
- Satellite imagery and radar data
- Temperature and humidity measurements
- Atmospheric pressure readings
- Computer weather models
- Historical weather pattern analysis
Discussion Questions
- Which approach would you choose? Why?
- What are the strengths of each approach?
- Could you use both approaches together? How?
- What would happen if one approach contradicted the other?
Exploring Knowledge Systems (20 minutes)
Traditional Māori Science - Pūtaiao Māori
Traditional Māori science represents thousands of years of careful observation, experimentation, and knowledge accumulation. It is a sophisticated system for understanding the natural world that guided successful navigation, agriculture, medicine, and environmental management long before European contact.
Astronomical Knowledge
Precise understanding of star movements, seasons, and navigation using celestial bodies. The Māori lunar calendar guided planting, harvesting, and fishing.
Medical Knowledge - Rongoā
Sophisticated understanding of plant properties, human anatomy, and healing practices developed through generations of careful observation and testing.
Environmental Science
Deep understanding of ecosystem relationships, sustainable resource management, and environmental indicators developed through intimate connection with place.
Agricultural Science
Advanced cultivation techniques, plant breeding, soil management, and crop rotation systems that sustained communities for centuries.
Modern STEM Approaches
Modern STEM represents systematic approaches to understanding the natural world through controlled experimentation, mathematical modeling, and technological tools. It has enabled rapid advancement in many fields and global communication of scientific knowledge.
Controlled Experimentation
Systematic testing of hypotheses through carefully controlled conditions that isolate specific variables and enable replication.
Mathematical Modeling
Using mathematical equations and statistical analysis to describe patterns, make predictions, and test theoretical understanding.
Technological Tools
Advanced instruments for measurement, observation, and analysis that extend human senses and enable precise quantification.
Global Communication
Standardized methods for sharing knowledge across cultures and languages, enabling rapid global collaboration and verification.
Comparison Activity: Strengths & Approaches (15 minutes)
Knowledge Systems Comparison Chart
Working in pairs, complete the comparison chart to understand the strengths and characteristics of each knowledge system:
| Aspect | Traditional Māori Science | Modern STEM |
|---|---|---|
| Time Scale | Thousands of years of observation | Rapid experimentation and testing |
| Context | Place-based, culturally integrated | Universal principles, controlled conditions |
| Knowledge Sharing | Oral tradition, cultural protocols | Written publication, peer review |
| Approach | Holistic, interconnected thinking | Reductionist, isolated variables |
| Validation | Community use, practical effectiveness | Controlled testing, statistical significance |
Reflection Questions
- What are the unique strengths of each approach?
- In what situations might one approach be more useful than the other?
- How might these approaches complement each other?
- What challenges might arise when trying to combine these approaches?
Integration Challenge: Solving Real Problems (15 minutes)
Scenario: Protecting a Local Stream
Your community is concerned about the health of a local stream that has cultural significance and provides drinking water. Fish populations seem to be declining, and the water occasionally looks cloudy. You need to investigate the problem and propose solutions.
Traditional Knowledge Approach
- Interview kaumātua about historical stream conditions
- Observe fish behavior and species present
- Check traditional indicators of water health
- Map land use changes over generations
- Apply traditional management practices
Modern STEM Approach
- Test water chemistry (pH, nutrients, pollutants)
- Count and identify fish species systematically
- Use microscopes to check for bacteria/parasites
- Analyze satellite images of land use changes
- Design technological solutions
Challenge Questions
- How could you combine both approaches to get a more complete understanding?
- What information might each approach reveal that the other would miss?
- How would you respectfully integrate traditional knowledge with scientific data?
- What solution strategies could draw from both knowledge systems?
Whakaata - Reflection & Assessment (10 minutes)
Exit Ticket: Knowledge Systems Understanding
Complete the following reflection questions in your learning journal:
- Knowledge Systems: Explain in your own words how traditional Māori science and modern STEM are both valid ways of understanding the natural world.
- Complementary Strengths: Give one example of how these two approaches could work together to solve an environmental problem.
- Respectful Integration: What protocols or considerations are important when working with traditional knowledge systems?
- Personal Connection: How does understanding dual knowledge systems change your perspective on science and learning?
Assessment Criteria
- Understanding: Demonstrates comprehension of both knowledge systems as valid approaches
- Integration: Shows ability to see how approaches can complement each other
- Respect: Displays appropriate respect for traditional knowledge protocols
- Application: Can apply understanding to real-world scenarios
Extension Activities
Research Project
Choose a specific area (astronomy, medicine, agriculture) and research how traditional Māori knowledge and modern science approach the same questions differently.
Community Interview
Interview a local kaumātua, scientist, or environmental expert about how they use or integrate different types of knowledge in their work.
Knowledge Map
Create a visual map showing how traditional and modern knowledge systems could work together to address a local environmental issue.
Whakakapi - Closing Reflection
"Mā te huruhuru ka rere ai te manu" - Just as feathers enable the bird to fly, both traditional knowledge and modern science enable us to soar in our understanding of the natural world. Today we have begun to appreciate that these are not competing systems, but complementary approaches that together create more powerful understanding than either could achieve alone.
He whakatōhea, he whakatōhea, he whakatōhea!