Learning activities

Mangrove study and aquatic threats

Bobbin Head is home to two species of mangrove.  Students will be required to classify these species by observing each to identify and describe similarities and differences. They will also be required to explain how their features are adaptations for survival and reproduction in their environment.

Using the information they have learnt about mangrove function, students will be required to identify and discuss threats to this ecosystem.

Dry Sclerophyll Features

Using fieldwork equipment, the students will research the biophysical features of the dry forest. These tests include aspect, soil pH, air temperature and soil temperature. Using plant ID books, the students will then identify a sample of dry sclerophyll plants and relate their features as adaptations for survival.

Rainforest

In the final activity, students will research the abiotic and biotic features of the remnant rainforest and use these findings to compare to the dry sclerophyll study site.

Aboriginal connections

Students will visit an Aboriginal cultural site and develop an understanding of Aboriginal use of native plants and the sustainable practices used in managing ecosystems.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am	Morning Tea
10.30am	Mangrove study and aquatic threats	Rainforest
11.15am	Dry sclerophyll features	Aboriginal connections
12.00pm	Aboriginal connections	Mangrove study and aquatic threats
12.45pm	Rainforest	Dry sclerophyll features
1.30pm	Lunch
2.00pm	Conclusion and depart

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

Syllabus outcomes

Science 7-10 Syllabus (2018)

Outcomes

• SC5-14LW analyses interactions between components and processes within biological systems

Content

Living world

LW2 Conserving and maintaining the quality and sustainability of the environment requires scientific understanding of interactions within, the cycling of matter and the flow of energy through ecosystems.

Students:

a. recall that ecosystems consist of communities of interdependent organisms and abiotic components of the environment (ACSSU176)

d. analyse how changes in some biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem affect populations and/or communities

e. assess ways that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' cultural practices and knowledge of the environment contribute to the conservation and management of sustainable ecosystems

f. evaluate some examples in ecosystems, of strategies used to balance conserving, protecting and maintaining the quality and sustainability of the environment with human activities and needs.

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.