Learning activities

Mapping, impacts and sustainable management of biomes

Students will develop their geographical skills through the use of topographic maps to investigate the distribution of biomes within the local landscape. Using area and grid references, contour interpretation, and scale, they identify how mangrove ecosystems occupy low-lying tidal zones, while temperate forest (dry sclerophyll) dominate higher ridgelines. This activity also explores human impacts on these biomes, including infrastructure such as seawalls and picnic areas, and the strategies used by National Parks to manage these environments sustainably.

Mangrove biome investigation

In this hands-on investigation, students learn how to use scientific fieldwork equipment to gather real-world environmental data. Working in small groups, they collect information on air and soil temperature, humidity, wind speed, gradient, aspect, forest structure, leaf characteristics, soil type, and soil pH. This activity deepens students’ understanding of how biophysical elements shape and support specific biome types and ecosystems.

Temperate forest biome investigation and comparison

Building on earlier observations, students will collect and then compare data collected from two contrasting biomes – mangrove and temperate forests. Through field-based inquiry, they analyse how environmental factors such as elevation, soil, moisture, and exposure to sunlight influence vegetation types and biome distribution. This comparison encourages students to synthesise information and consider how natural and human factors affect biome resilience and sustainability.

Aboriginal histories and cultures and uses of biomes

Students explore Aboriginal knowledge and sustainable use of local biomes through a cultural investigation of middens, bush tucker, traditional tools, and fire management practices. Students learn how Aboriginal Peoples have long understood and managed these environments for food, medicine, tools, and cultural renewal. This activity highlights the importance of traditional ecological knowledge in understanding and sustaining Australia’s diverse biomes.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Map study
10.10am	Morning Tea
10.30am	Sclerophyll forest biome data collection	Aboriginal uses of biomes
11.30am	Aboriginal uses of biomes	Sclerophyll forest biome data collection
12.10pm	Mangrove forest biome data collection	Mapping, impacts and sustainable mgt
12.50pm	Mapping, impacts and sustainable mgt	Mangrove forest biome data collection
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

• GE5-1 explains the diverse features and characteristics of a range of places and environments
• GE5-2 demonstrates an understanding that places and environments change
• GE5-3 explores interactions and connections between people, places and environments
• GE5-5 explores management of places and environments
• GE5-7 collects and uses geographical information for inquiry
• GE5-8 communicates geographical information

Content

Students:

• examine the physical characteristics and productivity of biomes
• examine the correlation between the world’s climatic zones and spatial distributions of biomes and their capacity to support food and non-food agricultural production
• analyse the impact humans have on biomes in an effort to produce food and increase agricultural yields

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
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.