Investigating Science- module 1
Redhead Beach
Program
Direct observations of the effects of plastics upon the marine environment has led to inferences about their harmful effects. The AUSMAP (Australian Microplastics Assessment Project) has been instigated from these observations. This Citizen Science program aims to observe, measure, record and analyse data to inform and create solutions to microplastic pollution. Students participate in this project to investigate microplastics following the AUSMAP methodology. The accompanying resources include opportunities to plan the investigation, analyse and draw conclusions from the data collected and address the inquiry questions in Module 1. This program may be used as part of a depth study.
Prior to the excursion students can plan an investigation around the following questions:
- How much microplastics and marine debris are on the shoreline?
- What types of micro-plastics and marine debris are present?
- Where might this micro-plastics/debris come from?
On the day students conduct their practical investigation that include:
- Collection of qualitative data on the study location (including weather, shoreline, riparian zone and human influences).
- Use of a transect and quadrat to collect data.
- Collection of quantitative data through conducting a macro litter survey.
- Collection of primary data through conducting a microplastic survey.
- Classification of microplastics into size classes, colour and plastic types.
- The opportunity to compare the amount and types of microplastics at two locations depending on group size
Post excursion students have the potential to draw conclusions from the interpretation of data.
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.
Redhead Beach
Students meet at Webb Park, Beach Road Redhead at 10:00am. The excursion takes place in Webb Park, on the beach adjacent to Webb Park and around the Redhead SLSC. Toilet facilities are available at the park. Students are collected from Webb Park at 2:00pm.
| 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 |
On the day come directly to Webb Park, Beach Road Redhead. Student transport drops off students at this location to commence excursion at 10:00am. Transport collects students at 2:00pm at Webb Park, Beach Road, Redhead. |
| 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 - 10:15 am
Learning activities - 10:30am
Lunch - 12:30pm
Learning activties - 1:00pm
Finish - 2:00pm
Students will have morning tea and lunch in Webb Park. Toilet facilities are available here. This timetable is only a guide and may be adjusted.
|
Investigating Science outcomes A student:
|
|
Content Module 1: Cause and Effect- Observing Inquiry Questions:
|