Silent Witnesses

'Silent Witnesses' is a collaboration between students of The Gardens School Manurewa and residents of Elmwood Retirement Village. Elders shared stories of their lives and most treasured possessions with the Year 7 and 8 writers. The result is a unique collection of eleven personal stories.

Each story interweaves life memories with the significance of a meaningful taonga such as a drawing, book, jewellery and figurines. Written in large font, there are accompanying photos of the residents and students during the interviewing process. The photos and text are equally important. Together, they showcase the learning process of the students and demonstrate interesting ways to learn outside the classroom. At the conclusion of each story, the young authors have then responded with messages and artwork of their own.

This pukapuka would make a great example text in the classroom. Teachers could examine the literacy skills of interviewing, listening, recording information and personal story writing. Broader goals such as fostering empathy, strengthening community connections and honouring the past are also possible.

'Silent Witnesses' is a heartwarming alliance between young and old which could inspire young writers by exposing them to the published writing of similar-aged children.