Stage 5
Students investigate two ecosystems within the Awabakal Nature Reserve. Students measure the abiotic factors and discuss how changes in biotic or abiotic components effect populations or communities in these ecosystems. Classification, adaptations and the use of simple keys to identify a range of plants and animals are investigated. Students discuss how Aboriginal management practices contributed to the conservation and management of sustainable ecosystems and evaluate the strategies used to balance human use and conservation in the Nature Reserve.
Activities:
• Abiotic testing in Coastal Heath
• Abiotic testing in Freshwater Lagoon and discussion of the impact of human activities
• Use of a simple key to identify plants
• Plant investigation to identify adaptations
• Dip netting, abundance and energy flow of freshwater lagoon animals
• Discussion of Aboriginal conservation and sustainability management practices
For further information on curriculum links, program and excursion information see below or contact us.