Science - Ecosystem Investigation

Aboriginal connections

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

Mangrove identification and adaptations

Students will conduct a practical investigation to identify, examine and record the adaptations of the two mangrove species located at Bobbin Head.

Crab biotic investigation (tide/season dependent)

Students will use scientific techniques to identify crab species and use observation to predict their adaptations. They will use scientific equipment and survey techniques to sample crab population size and conclude what part of the inter-tidal zone crabs prefer.

Water quality analysis

Students will use scientific equipment to test the quality of the wester at Bobbin Head and use the results and observations to determine human impacts on water and mangrove ecosystems.

Mangrove food chains and human impacts

Students will observe and record the trophic level of different species of plants and animals during the day. They will use this information to complete food chains and food webs and predict changes in populations due to possible human impacts.

NOTE: Variations to timetable based on specific location, group size and weather

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Science 7-10 Syllabus 

Outcomes

A student:

> relates the structure and function of living things to their classification, survival and reproduction SC4-14LW

Content

LW1 There are differences within and between groups of organisms; classification helps organise this diversity (ACSSU111)

Students:

b. Classify a variety of living things based on similarities and differences in structural features

c. Use simple keys to identify a range of plants and animals

e. Outline the structural features used to group living things, including plants and animals

f. Explain how the features of some Australian plants and animals have adaptations for survival and reproduction in their environment.

LW5 Science and technology contribute to finding solutions to conserving and managing sustainable ecosystems.

Students:

a. Construct and interpret food chains and food webs, including examples from Australian ecosystems

b. Describe interactions between organisms in food chains and food webs, including producers, consumers and decomposers (ACSSU112)

d. Predict how human activities can affect interactions in food chains and food webs, including examples from Australian land or marine ecosystems (ACSSU112)

Science 7-10 Syllabus © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2012