This resource is a place-based science curriculum module focused on Haleakalā’s alpine/aeolian ecosystem. It is part of the Hōʻike o Haleakalā curriculum, a free high school science curriculum designed by Maui teachers and field biologists, and the Alpine / Aeolian section is organized into five units covering geology, climate, native and introduced species, resource protection, culture, and summit land-use issues.
Alpine Ecosystem Investigation Series
Students investigate Haleakalā’s summit environment through a sequence of activities on volcano history and geologic processes, summit climate, species adaptations, native plant-insect relationships, invasive Argentine ants, and the cultural and scientific importance of the summit area. Activities include data analysis, games, student research, group discussion, and problem-solving around conservation and resource management.
