Program
The Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park of northern Sydney includes both natural and human landscapes.
During the day, students will identify and describe the features of the riverine or coastal landscape, investigate the human landscape including how the area is currently used, how it is valued by different groups and the impacts of change over time on the landscape.
Throughout the day, they will use geographical including maps, field sketches and measuring temperature, humidity, soil pH and gradient.
Learning intentions
Students are learning about:
- the geographical features of this area
- the geomorphic processes that have created the landforms in this area
- how different people value landscapes and landforms
- how the geomorphic landscape affects the biotic landscape
- how humans use the landscape and what management strategies will help protect it
Key information
Learning activities
Map study
The day commences with the students orientating themselves using a compass and topographic map. Students will be required to locate grid coordinates, estimate distance and describe the topography of the days journey.
Bush walk
During the walk, the students will explore parts of the park to identify the different ways people use and value the area. This will also provide them with an opportunity to consider what they value in this area.
Aboriginal histories and cultures
The students will visit and learn about an Aboriginal engraving site to learn about the cultural value of the landscape and landforms to the traditional owners of the area.
Field sketch
The students will visit a lookout with views over the landscape. There they will complete a field study sketch and cross-section to identify the landforms and describe the geomorphic processes that shape this area.
Geographical tools
The students will use a range of geographical tools to investigate the geomorphic landscape and how this affects the biotic landscape. This includes measuring temperature, humidity, soil pH and gradient.
Investigation of a human landscape
Students will learn about how the landscape has changed over time and describe the impact this has had on the landscape.
Students will list some of the human uses of the investigation area and describe how it is managed and protected.
Suggested timetable
| Time | Class A, B | Class C, D |
| 10.00am |
Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Map study |
|
| 10.20am | Morning Tea | |
| 10.30am |
Bush walk Traditional sites visit |
Field sketch Geographical tools |
| 11.45am |
Field sketch Geographical tools |
Bush walk Traditional sites visit |
| 1.00pm | Lunch | |
| 1.30pm | Human use and management | |
| 2.00pm | Conclusion and depart | |
* Please call the centre if you have more than 4 classes
With multiple locations, the school is able to host up to 8 classes on one day
Syllabus outcomes
Geography 7-10 Syllabus (2015)
Outcomes
- GE4-1 locates and describes the diverse features and characetristcis of a range of places and environments
- GE4-2 describes processes and influences that form and transfrom places and environments
- GE4-4 examines perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical issues
- GE4-5 discusses management of places and environments for their sustainability
- GE4-7 acquires and processes geographical information by selecting and using geographical tools for inquiry
Content
Landscapes and landforms
Students:
-
investigate different landscapes and the geomorphic processes that create distinctive landforms, for example: (ACHGK048, ACHGK050)
- idenification of a variety of landscapes and landforms
- explanation of geomorphic processes that create landforms eg weathering, erosion, deposition
- examination of ONE landscape and its distinctive landforms
Value of landscapes and landforms
Students:
-
investigate the aesthetic, cultural, spiritual and economic value of landscapes and landforms for people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, for example: (ACHGK049)
- explanantion of the aesthic value of landscapes and landforms to culture and identity
- description of the cultural and spiritual value of landscapes and landforms in different places
Changing landscapes
Students:
-
investigate the human causes and effects of landscape degradation, for example: (ACHGK051)
- identification of the ways that people utilise and change landscapes
- description of the impact of a range of human activities on landscapes
Landscape management and protection
Students:
-
investigate ways people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Manage and protect landscapes, for example: (ACHGK052)
- description of the naturer and extent of landscape protection across a range of scales eg locally protected places, national parks
- examination of management and protection strategies for ONE landscape
Geographical tools
Maps (M) - topographic maps, maps to identify direction, scale and distance, grid reference, altitude, contour lines, gradient
Fieldwork (F) - observing, measuring, collecting and recording data, fieldwork instruments such as compasses
Visual Representation (VR) - annotated diagrams, field sketches
Supporting resource - virtual fieldwork
| Landscapes and landforms virtual fieldwork |
Landscapes and landforms virtual fieldwork An online resource to support students who are unable to attend the fieldwork. This resources is based on the landscapes and landforms at West Head. Please contact the Centre for more information. |
Cost and details
| Bus access map |
Map for access to venue will be sent with the confirmation. Please ensure you print a copy and provide to the bus driver on the morning of the excursion. |
| Cost |
2025 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2025 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $750 per class NOTE: National Parks entry is $1.10 per student in addition |
| Class numbers and size |
Up to 4 classes Max. 30 students per class Please contact the centre if you have more than 4 classes. |
| Risk assessments | A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation. |
| What to bring |
Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes, mask. Students wear sports uniform. |
| Adverse weather |
On days where the weather is unsuitable (see risk assessment), a Gibberagong staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements. Please check your bus company’s cancellation policy. |
| Medical notifications | Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking. |
Excursion locations
With multiple locations, the school is able to host up to 8 classes on one day.