Different and similar environments- Wetlands Campus
Geography
Program
Students explore the climate, vegetation and animals of wetland environments through engaging and practical activities. They examine the importance of natural resources to the environment, animals and people and learn about the ways people value environments, including the Awabakal people.
Activities:
- Walk through the wetlands developing fieldwork skills using a map, compass, GPS and trundle wheel.
- Students explore the Aboriginal bush tucker garden, learning how plants help the environment and how Aboriginal people use plants. Students complete a leaf rubbing activity.
- Students collect data on the weather and water quality using specialised equipment. Students discuss Aboriginal seasonal calendars.
- Students use binoculars to complete observations and identify birds. Students visit the animal house that contains reptiles and other animals in glass enclosures to look at features of animals and animals that live in a wetland environment and different environments.
The basic program will be changed to suit the group size and weather conditions.
For further information on curriculum links, the program and excursion information see below or contact us.
| What to bring |
Printed worksheets in colour, 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. |
| Bus information |
Drop off and collection Awabakal Environmental Education Centre, Wetlands Campus located at Hunter Wetlands Centre, 412 Sandgate Rd, Shortland, Newcastle. Please use School entry. |
| 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 with less than three school weeks notice may incur an administration fee. This does not apply to cancellations due to weather or fire danger. |
Introduction - 10:00 am
Morning tea - 10:20 am
Learning activities - 10:50am
Lunch - 12:00pm
Learning activities - 12:30pm
Finish- 2:00pm
This timetable is only a guide and may be adjusted.
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Stage 2 Geography outcomes Places are similar and different: A student:
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Key inquiry questions Places are similar and different:
The earth’s environment:
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Content The earth’s environment The Australian continent Climate of places Places are similar and different Significance of environments Perception and protection of places and environments |