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Resource Title: Mohala Mai ʻO Hau, How Hau Became Hauʻula | Kamehameha Publishing
Organization: Kamehameha Publishing
Description:

Written by Robert Lono ʻIkuwā and illustrated by Matthew Kāwika Ortiz. Kamehameha Publishing identifies an animated version of the story as part of its Lau Nehenehe offerings.

This animated story follows Hau, a young girl from Koʻolauloa, who feels overshadowed by her older sisters Niu, Pūhala, and Lehua. With guidance from her kūpuna, Hau gradually discovers her own talents, value, and contributions.

The story shows young learners an accessible way to engage with ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, Hawaiian storytelling, family relationships, intergenerational learning, identity, and place.

Target Audience: 3rd - 5th grade, Educators, Facilitators, K-5, Pre-K - 2nd grade
Instructional Roles: Enrichment, Hook activity, Main lesson
Environment: Classroom, Online only (e.g. interactive map), Self-guided
Content Type: Cultural practice, Language
Type Of Engagement: Observe, Reflect
Format: Video
Activity:

Watch and Reflect on the Story

Students watch and listen to the animated moʻolelo and can:

  • Listen for Hawaiian words and phrases.
  • Identify the main characters: Hau, Niu, Pūhala, Lehua, and Hau's kūpuna.
  • Discuss why Hau initially feels overshadowed by her sisters.
  • Identify how her kūpuna helps her understand her own strengths.
  • Consider how each family member has different talents and contributions.
  • Reflect on a talent, strength, or contribution that makes each learner unique.
  • Discuss the role of kūpuna in sharing knowledge and supporting younger generations.
  • Connect the story with the place name Hauʻula and the Koʻolauloa setting.
Topics Covered:
  • ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi
  • Hawaiian-language storytelling
  • Moʻolelo
  • Koʻolauloa
  • Hauʻula
  • Hawaiian place-based stories
  • Kūpuna
  • Intergenerational learning
  • ʻOhana
  • Sisters and family relationships
  • Personal identity
  • Individual strengths and talents
  • Self-discovery
  • Belonging
  • Recognizing one's contributions
  • Hawaiian names and language
  • Hawaiian cultural values

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