Learning activities

Mapping current land use

Students will use their observations and a topographic map to locate areas of human activity within Bobbin Head and pinpoint this location using area and grid reference.

Monitoring intertidal health

Using a variety of geographical tools, including kestrel and light meters, students will measure and record various biophysical aspects of the intertidal wetland and make a judgment on the health of the area.

Biophysical processes

Students will learn about the role and importance of the mangroves and crabs before investigating the biophysical processes that occur during a crab transect activity.

Natural and human processes

A field sketch of the Cowan Creek will enable students to record and annotate the natural and human processes that have shaped this area.

Land use and management

Students will gather data on current uses and attitudes towards mangroves and propose future management strategies.

Changing perspectives over time

Students will compare photographs from the 1930's with observations of the mangrove forest today to deduct how world-views and management of mangroves has changed over time.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Map study
10.10am	Mapping current land use
10.30am	Morning Tea
10.50am	Monitoring intertidal health	Mangrove forests Biophysical processes
11.30am	Land use and management	Natural and human processes
12.10pm	Mangrove forests Biophysical processes	Monitoring intertidal health
12.50pm	Natural and human processes	Land use and management
1.30pm	Lunch
2.00pm	Conclusion and depart

* Please call the centre if you have more than 4 classes

Syllabus outcomes

Geography 7-10 Syllabus (2015)

Outcomes

• GE5-2 demonstrates an understanding that places and environments change
• GE5-3 explores interactions and connections between people, places and environments
• GE5-4 recognises perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical issues
• GE5-5 explores management of places and environments
• GE5-7 collects and uses geographical information for inquiry
• GE5-8 communicates geographical information

Content

Environments

Students:

• investigate the role and importance of natural environments, for example:

  • identification of the function of natural environments in supporting life

Environmental change

Students:

• investigate human-induced environmental changes across a range of scales, for example:

  • brief examination of types, and extent, of environmental change

Environmental management

Students:

• investigate environmental management, including different worldviews and the management approaches of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

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

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	2026 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2026 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 - GST free
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.