S4 Ecosystems
Science
Program
This Stage 4 Science excursion offers students an immersive experience that aligns with the Science syllabus (2023), focusing on ecosystems and their complex interconnections.
During the excursion program, students will enhance their scientific inquiry skills and deepen their understanding of ecosystems, through four hands-on and engaging investigations including water testing, abiotic testing and biotic observations to create food webs.
Special Note
The optional crab transect activity requires a low tide and warm weather. Please check the booking calendar for a low tide availability day.
Learning intentions
Students are learning about:
- how scientists measure the health of an ecosystem
- what the biotic and abiotic features of an ecosystem are and how do they interact
- how the biotic features of an ecosystem interact and move energy
- how the abiotic and biotic features compare between ecosystems
Key information
Learning activities
Water quality analysis
Students will utilise scientific equipment to collect, record and analyse water samples to enhance their understanding of the abiotic features of the mangrove ecosystem and the methods scientists use to monitor the health of an ecosystem.
Biotic survey and food webs
Students will observe and document the biotic features of the mangrove ecosystem. This data will be used to create a food web that illustrates how energy flows through the ecosystem and the methods scientists employ to collect and analyse data when assessing ecosystem health.
Ecosystem Investigation
Students will collect, record, analyse and compare the abiotic and biotic features of two ecosystems to understand how these features interact.
Option - Crab investigation (tide/season dependent)
Students will undertake a scientific investigation to determine if crab distribution (biotic) is affected by distance from the creek (abiotic). Using scientific equipment including quadrats, the students will collect, record data and analyse data to test a hypothesis.
Suggested timetable
| Time | Class A, B | Class C, D |
| 10.00am | Acknowledgement of Country, Overview of the day | |
| 10.10am | Morning Tea | |
| 10.30am | Water quality analysis | Ecosystem investigation 1 |
| 11.15am | Biotic survey and food webs |
Ecosystem investigation 2 or Crab investigation |
| 12.00pm | Lunch | |
| 12.30pm | Ecosystem investigation 1 | Water quality analysis |
| 1.15pm |
Ecosystem investigation 2 or Crab investigation |
Biotic survey and food webs |
| 2.00pm | Departure | |
* Please call the centre if you have more than 4 classes
Syllabus outcomes
Science 7-10 Syllabus (2023)
Outcomes
- SC4-LIV-01 describes the role, structure and function of a range of living systems and their components
- SC4-WS-01 uses scientific tools and instruments for observations
- SC4-WS-04 follows a planned procedure to undertake safe and valid investigations
- SC4-WS-08 communicates scientific concepts and ideas using a range of communication forms
Content
Ecosystems
- identify the components that make up an ecosystem
- investigate the interactions of biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem
- identify how matter and energy are cycled through an ecosystem
- create a food web and ecological energy pyramid based on local area observations to describe how matter and energy move through an ecosystem
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 $30 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. |
