Stage 6
Students use a variety of sampling techniques to obtain data to analyse the biotic and abiotic factors operating within four ecosystems in Awabakal Nature Reserve. Students engage in first hand investigations into the environmental pressures that promote a change in species diversity and abundance and affect the growth of plants. Students participate in collaborative investigations to collect qualitative and quantitative primary data, discuss the validity and reliability of data and improvement to fieldwork methods. Students can make inferences and conclusions from data collected. This program may be used as part of a depth study.
Fieldwork will include:
• collect abiotic data to predict their effect on organisms in four different ecosystems (including measuring: air temperature, humidity, aspect, soil pH and soil moisture using data loggers and other field equipment)
• measure the diversity and abundance of plant species in four different ecosystems
• observe and describe the impact of biotic factors including predation, competition, and symbiotic relationships
• investigate the adaptations of a given plant. Make observations of this plant species at two different locations to make inferences on the effect of abiotic factors on the growth of this plant.
• investigate how human activity can impact on these ecosystems e.g. fire, sand mining and introduced species
For further information on curriculum links, program and excursion information see below or contact us.