Lesson Plan - Bringing Lilo to Life

Watch a Video
Build background knowledge about Hawaiian culture and history by watching the video “Across the U.S.: Hawaii.” Discuss: Based on the video, what are some of the things that you think make Hawaii a special place? 

Preview Word to Know

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Word to Know.

• authentic

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them think about things that are important to their own home state.

1. What are some ways that Lilo and Maia Kealoha are alike?
Lilo and Maia Kealoha are alike in that they are both from Hawaii and they both surf.
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2. How did filmmakers make sure the movie showed Hawaii in an authentic way?
Filmmakers took steps to make sure the film showed Hawaii in an authentic way. For example, production designer Todd Cherniawsky traveled to Hawaii to learn about the state. The article explains, “He attended a Hawaiian celebration called a luau (LOO-ow). Luaus are filled with food, music, and dancing.”
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3. Based on the sidebar, “Hula History,” why is hula an important part of Hawaiian culture?
Based on the sidebar, “Hula History,” hula is an important part of Hawaiian culture because it has been around for hundreds of years and was a way for people to pass down stories when there was no written language.
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FEATURED SKILL: Paired Text
Distribute the skill builder “The First Hula” and explain that it features a traditional Hawaiian tale about how hula got its start. Have students answer the questions about the tale and then discuss as a class.
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