Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

Wonder, Engage, Inspire

Telephone02 9457 8245

Emailgibberagon-e.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Birds, Beaks and Black-Cockatoos

Tawny Frogmoutn in nest

Science and Technology

 

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Overview

The Glossy Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) is one of the rarest and most threatened of Australia’s large, black cockatoos. During the program, students will learn about the features of the bird, its habitat and the role of this amazing bird in the natural environment. Students will also learn about the different types of bird beaks before they design and make their own beak using a variety of different materials.

Students making craft beaks

Inquiry questions

How do the adaptations of animals, like the Glossy Black Cockatoo, help them survive in their environment?

What are the features of the Gloss Black Cockatoo and how do these features help them survive in their environment?

Why do different birds have different beaks?

How can Glossy Black Cockatoos and their habitats be protected?

Introduction

This program commences with a short presentation that introduces students to teh Glossy Black Cockatoo. Students will discover where they live, their features, diet and threats to survival.

Best Beaks

Focused around the text 'The Best Beaks in Boonaroo Bay' sstudents will learn about animal adaptations and in particular how beaks are shaped according to the feeding requirements of individual birds. Students will then be challenged to create and test their own beaks to perform different feeding tasks.

Habitat Walk

Students will complete the program with a short walk around their school grounds to determine which birds use their school grounds and what they could do to attract more birds.

NOTE: Gibberagong staff can work within established school times on the day. Please contact the Centre to disucss.

Time

Classes
8.00am-9.00am GEEC staff set-up
9.00am Class A
10.30am Morning Tea
11.00am
 Class B
12.30pm Lunch
1.00pm Class C
2.30pm Finish and pack-up
3.00pm GEEC staff depart

Download the program flyer

Location

Your school

Cost

2025 DoE $20 per student - GST free

2025 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $750 per class. 

Risk Assessments

View the sample risk assessment

A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation.
Preparation

Please provide one learning space/classroom for all participating classes for the duration of the day. 

Please ensure the space has a smart board

What to bring

Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes, mask.

Students wear reusable name tag and 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 arrangments.

Medical notifications

Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the incursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking.

Science and Technology K-6 Syllabus © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2017

 

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Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

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