Birds, Beaks and Black-Cockatoos

Science and Technology

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.

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?

Learning activities

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.

Sample timetable

Teacher information

Download the program flyer

Location	Your school
Cost	2024 DoE $15 per student - GST free 2024 Non-gov school cost $20 per student - GST free, minimum charge $600 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.

Syllabus outcomes and content

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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

Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

Birds, Beaks and Black-Cockatoos

Science and Technology

Overview

Inquiry questions

Learning activities

Introduction

Best Beaks

Habitat Walk

Sample timetable

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

Teacher information

Download the program flyer

Syllabus outcomes and content

Related content

Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

General enquiries

Birds, Beaks and Black-Cockatoos

Science and Technology

Overview

Inquiry questions

Learning activities

Sample timetable

Teacher information

Syllabus outcomes and content

Related content

Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

General enquiries

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