Hawaiian Luau Lesson

1. Hawaiian Luau Lesson

2. In order to appreciate a Hawaiian luau, it helps to know a little bit about the geography, history,culture,and foodof the Hawaiian islands.

3. Geography of Hawaii

4. Geographical Facts about Hawaii • Hawaii is the only state that is not part of the North American continent. • It is the world's longest island chain. • The eight main islands of Hawaii are Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. • Honolulu is the state capital and the largest city. • Hawaii is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.

5. See if you can locate the eight main islands of Hawaii -- Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe.

6. See if you can locate the two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, on the island of Hawaii?

7. Volcanoes • Hawaii is actually a chain of 132 islands, each of which is the top of a submerged volcanic mountain. • Mauna Loa pours out lava on the average of once every four years, • Lava flows from Kilauea about once every seven years.

8. In some places, large rocks of lava protrude from the water along the shore. • Some beaches are covered with black sand, formed when molten lava met the ocean.

9. Some of the coastline is comprised of tall cliffs rising straight up from the waters edge. • Mount Waialeale is the rainiest spot on earth, averaging 460 inches of rain a year, and contributing to this island's nickname; the Garden Island. • The valley between these two mountain ranges consists of a fertile, rolling plain and support many sugar and pineapple plantations. • Lana`i: Is Pineapple growing country, with 98% of the land owned by the makers of Dole pineapple products.