Lesson Plan: Making Kawakawa Balm and Introduction to Rongoā Māori

Subject: Science

Year Level: Year 7 (Ages 11-12)

Duration: 100 Minutes

Class Size: 18 Students

Learning Area and Curriculum Standards:

This lesson aligns with the Science learning area of the New Zealand Curriculum. Specifically, it addresses the "Nature of Science" strand, encouraging students to explore science in context and develop an understanding of Māori perspectives on the natural world.

Lesson Objectives:

1. Students will understand the basics of Rongoā Māori and its cultural significance in New Zealand.
2. Students will learn the correct tikanga (protocol) practices for harvesting kawakawa.
3. Students will apply basic science skills to produce kawakawa balm.

Materials Needed:

• Fresh kawakawa leaves (ethically harvested)
• Coconut oil or olive oil
• Beeswax
• Double boiler or similar setup for gentle heating
• Strainer or cheesecloth
• Small containers or jars for balm storage
• Gloves for handling materials
• Scales for measuring ingredients

Lesson Details:

Introduction to Lesson (10 minutes)

• Activity:
  • Begin with a discussion on the traditional uses of native plants in New Zealand, focusing on kawakawa.
  • Introduce Rongoā Māori, explaining its role in Māori culture as traditional healing.
  • Discuss ethical practices and the importance of understanding and respecting indigenous knowledge.

Rongoā Māori and Tikanga for Harvesting (20 minutes)

• Activity:
  • Present a brief informational segment on the significance of kawakawa in Rongoā Māori.
  • Explain the tikanga associated with harvesting kawakawa, such as asking for permission from nature (karakia), taking only what is needed, and leaving the environment undisturbed.
  • Show images or videos if available, to illustrate proper harvesting techniques.

Preparation and Harvesting Simulation (20 minutes)

• Activity:
  • If possible, have students participate in a simulated kawakawa harvesting activity in the school garden or nearby natural area (only simulate if actual harvesting isn't feasible).
  • Practice the tikanga discussed, including performing a simple karakia.

Making Kawakawa Balm (40 minutes)

• Activity:
  • Guide students in creating their own kawakawa balm using the harvested leaves (or pre-harvested leaves if actual harvesting wasn't possible).
  • Instruct students on how to prepare the leaves (chopping finely), measuring and melting the oil and beeswax, and combining ingredients.
  • Discuss the science behind the process, such as the properties of kawakawa that are beneficial for the skin and the role of beeswax and oil in creating a balm.
  • Allow the balm to set in small containers.

Conclusion and Cleanup (10 minutes)

• Activity:
  • Allow students to label their balm containers.
  • Discuss how they can use the balm and the importance of homemade versus commercial products.
  • Reflection on what they learned about Rongoā Māori and the incorporation of traditional knowledge and practices into modern life.

Assessment:

• Assess student engagement and understanding through observation during activities and through asking questions about the process and the cultural significance of materials used.

Links for Further Information:

• TKI Rongoā Māori – Information about traditional Māori healing and plants.
• Teaching resource for Māori knowledge on plants – Further materials on incorporating Māori knowledge into teaching.

Safety Considerations:

• Ensure all students are wearing gloves during handling of materials.
• Supervise the use of the double boiler to prevent burns.
• Check for allergies related to kawakawa, beeswax, or oils used in the balm-making process.

This lesson provides a practical application of science skills while deeply respecting and incorporating Māori cultural knowledge, aligning with both scientific and cultural educational goals in New Zealand.