Stage 6
A geographical investigation of a freshwater wetland environment, the uniqueness and value along with threats and management.
This program includes:
Short Introduction on the day
Fieldwork including:
- Data collection and analysis using a variety of fieldwork instruments and connection to the atmospheric, hydrological, geomorphic and ecological systems.
- Equipment used during the program includes: hygrometer, anemometer, compass, water thermometer, water and soil pH testing equipment, turbidity tube, kestrel, clinometer, data logger, GPS, maps.
- Development of a vegetation transect and quadrat.
- Analysis of the values of this wetland ecosystem and how these have changed over time.Examination of issues, threats and management to this wetland ecosystem.
For further information on curriculum links, program and excursion information see below or contact us.
Further Information
Location
Awabakal Environmental Education Centre- Wetlands Campus located at the Hunter Wetlands Centre 412 Sandgate Road, Shortland.
Please use school entry.
Wetlands Campus is located at the Hunter Wetlands Centre, which is a managed wetland reserve with natural and artificial water features accessed by decks and established walking tracks. The site is classified as part of the Hunter Estuary Ramsar Site under the International Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar).
Wetlands Campus has a purpose built education centre including theatre, wet room and classroom.
Syllabus outcomes and content
Geography outcomes
A student:
- examines places, environments and natural and human phenomena, for their characteristics, spatial patterns, interactions and changes over time GE-11-01
- explains geographical processes and influences, at a range of scales, that form and transform places and environments GE-11-02
- analyses and synthesises relevant geographical information from a variety of sources GE-11-05
- applies geographical inquiry skills and tools, including spatial technologies, fieldwork, and ethical practices, to investigate places and environments GE-11-07
Content
Overview of the uniqueness and diversity of the Earth
- Nature as a source of wonder
- People’s connection to the natural world and why it can vary
- The universal value of Earth’s environments
- Inspirational landscapes
- Aboriginal peoples’ connection to Country
Processes, cycles and circulations connecting natural systems
- Characteristics of Earth’s natural systems and factors affecting their functioning
- Latitude
- Altitude
- Continentality
- Oceanity
- Seasonality
The processes, cycles and circulations connecting natural systems including:
- atmospheric
- hydrospheric
- geomorphic
- ecological
Bus information
Awabakal Environmental Education Centre- Wetlands Campus located at the Hunter Wetlands Centre 412 Sandgate Road, Shortland.
Please use school entry.
What to bring
Printed worksheets, clipboard and pencil.
Students should bring lunch, recess, refillable water bottle, hats, sunscreen, covered walking shoes plus any special requirements of the group (Wet weather gear when necessary). Non-aerosol insect repellent is advisable in summer.
Sample timetable
Introduction - 10:00am
Learning activities - 10:30am
Lunch - 12:00pm
Learning activities - 12:30pm
Finish - 2:00pm
Students will have lunch on the grounds of the AEEC. There are toilet facilities available. This timetable is only a guide and may be adjusted.
Supervision
AEEC is a NSW Department of Education school and staff are trained DoE teachers specialising in Environmental Education.
AEEC teachers rely on the participation of visiting teachers to meet recommended supervision levels. Visiting teachers are ultimately responsible for behaviour of students, students with existing medical conditions or special needs.
Medical or special needs
Please notify Awabakal Environmental Education Centre of any medical conditions or special needs that may need to be taken into consideration when planning or delivering the program. Upon booking an excursion, a form will be emailed to complete to detail any medical or special needs.
Parent / carer helpers
As our staff are Department of Education teachers we don’t require parent helpers on the day. If your school decides to bring parents, we kindly ask that you keep the number to a minimum. For safety reasons and the nature of our sites, parents will not be able to participate in activities.
Extreme or wet weather
Extreme weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, high winds and extreme bush fire danger may result in the excursion being modified, postponed or cancelled. If you have any concerns regarding the weather prior to the excursion, contact Awabakal Environmental Education Centre on 4955 8673 or email awabakal-e.school@det.nsw.edu.au.
Cancellations
Cancellations less than three school weeks notice may incur an administration fee. This does not apply to cancellations due to weather or fire danger.
Bookings
For bookings click here.