Unit 3: STEM Through Mātauranga Māori
Dual Knowledge Systems for Environmental Action
This 8-10 week unit integrates traditional Māori environmental knowledge with contemporary STEM approaches. Students will learn how these two powerful knowledge systems can work together to create innovative solutions for the environmental challenges facing our communities and our planet.
Whakatūwhera - Unit Opening
In this unit, we explore how mātauranga Māori and Western science are not opposing forces, but complementary ways of understanding our natural world. Through the lens of kaitiakitanga, we become environmental guardians using both traditional wisdom and modern technology.
"Ko au te taiao, ko te taiao ko au" - I am the environment, the environment is me.
📋 Kaiako Planning Snapshot
Ngā Whāinga Akoranga — Learning Intentions
- Ākonga will understand how mātauranga Māori and Western science are complementary knowledge systems for environmental action.
- Ākonga will apply kaitiakitanga as both a Māori value and a practical framework for environmental stewardship.
- Ākonga will investigate real environmental challenges using both scientific methods and Māori ecological knowledge.
- Ākonga will design and evaluate solutions that draw on dual knowledge systems — te ao Māori and STEM.
Paearu Angitu — Success Criteria
- I can explain what kaitiakitanga means and give at least two examples of it in practice.
- I can compare a Western scientific approach and a mātauranga Māori approach to the same environmental issue.
- I can use data and Māori ecological knowledge together to analyse an environmental problem.
- I can propose a solution that integrates both knowledge systems with evidence and reasoning.
Entry / On-Level / Extension
- Entry: Supported readings with glossary; visual comparison frameworks (Māori vs. Western science); guided observation tasks with scaffolds.
- On-level: Structured inquiry using both knowledge systems; data collection and analysis; collaborative design challenge.
- Extension: Independent research into a local environmental issue; design a community kaitiakitanga initiative; present findings to an authentic audience.
Inclusion Guidance
- ESOL / ELL learners: Bilingual glossaries for scientific and Māori ecological terms. Use diagrams and visual models to support comprehension. Pair tasks encouraged.
- Neurodiverse learners / ADHD: Hands-on observation activities; chunked inquiry steps with visible checkpoints. UDL principle: choice in how ākonga represent findings (diagram, video, oral report).
- Dyslexia: Audio-text versions of key readings; visual concept maps; voice recording as an alternative to written analysis.
Ngā Akoranga - Lesson Sequence
Dual Knowledge Systems
Explore traditional Māori science and modern STEM as complementary ways of understanding the natural world.
Environmental Kaitiakitanga
Learn to read environmental signs and develop your identity as kaitiaki (environmental guardians).
Cultural Mathematics
Discover geometry in Māori art and probability in traditional games - mathematics as cultural expression.
Technology & Innovation
Apply integrated knowledge to sustainable technology design challenges with mātauranga Māori integration.
Community Science
Synthesize learning through environmental leadership and community engagement projects.