School: Nānāikapono Elementary School
Grade Level: Grades 4-6
Teacher: Charimel Rarrallo
Driving Question: How do we, as Nānāikapono students, create memories that can be cherished by families, the community, and future students through photography and art?
What did the students DO?
The Hāna Noʻeau group at Nānāikapono Elementary has been exploring photography and art as a way to preserve cherished memories for families, the community, and future students. From experimenting with disposable cameras to practicing art techniques like line drawing, stippling, and origami, these haumāna (students) are developing their creative skills. They are working toward using their photographs and artwork to enhance school projects and events, including morning bulletins and PALS hō‘ike presentations.
- Exploring Photography Techniques: Students have been practicing photography using various devices such as disposable cameras, cellphones, and tablets. They captured images of PALS groups, plants, artifacts, and campus life, with the goal of refining their technical skills.
- Developing Art Skills: Alongside photography, haumāna explored line art, stippling, painting, and origami. They created art cards featuring personal favorites like cartoon characters and fruit, and practiced origami figures such as flapping birds and roosters.
- Family & Community Memory Project: Each student received a disposable camera to take home, capturing images of family and community. The developed photos revealed opportunities for growth in lighting, focus, and composition, providing valuable learning moments for the group.
- Preparing for Hōʻike: The group is planning an interactive photo booth for the PALS Hōʻike, showcasing their photography skills while engaging the community in a creative and memorable way.
The Hāna Noʻeau group is fostering creativity, self-expression, and technical skill through the combined exploration of photography and art. By documenting life in their school and community, these students are not only preserving moments but also developing a deeper connection to their surroundings. Their work supports the idea that art and photography can serve as powerful cultural tools, capturing the beauty of everyday life and strengthening community bonds.
