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 perspectives 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. They 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.
