Geography- Earth's natural systems
Wetlands Campus
Program
A geographical investigation of a freshwater wetland environment including: the uniqueness, value, systems, threats and management.
Activities:
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Primary data collection and analysis of the atmospheric, hydrological, geomorphic and ecological systems using fieldwork instruments at two locations in the wetland. Students discuss the processes shaping the wetland and connections between systems.
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Construction of a vegetation transect and use of a quadrat to observe vegetation.
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Analysis of the values of this wetland ecosystem and how these have changed over time.
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Walk through the wetlands observing and examining issues, threats and management to this wetland ecosystem.
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.
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 - 10:00am
Learning activities - 10:30am
Lunch - 12:00pm
Learning activities - 12:30pm
Finish - 2:00pm
This timetable is only a guide and may be adjusted.
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Geography outcomes A student:
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Content Overview of the uniqueness and diversity of the Earth
Processes, cycles and circulations connecting natural systems
The processes, cycles and circulations connecting natural systems including:
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