Geography: Landscapes and Landforms
Overview
The Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park of northern Sydney includes both natural and human landscapes.
During the day, students will identify and describe the features of the riverine or coastal landscape, investigate the human landscape including how the area is currently used, how it is valued by different groups and the impacts of change over time on the landscape.
Throughout the day, they will use geographical including maps, field sketches and measuring temperature, humidity, soil pH and gradient.
Inquiry questions
What are the geographical features of this area?
What geomorphic processes have created the landforms in this area?
How do different people value landscapes and landforms?
How does the geomorphic landscape affect the biotic landscape?
How do humans use the landscape at Bobbin Head and what management strategies will help protect it?
Excursion locations
This program is offered at the following locations. Click on an image to find out more.
*Note: Excursions at Muogamarra operate in Terms 2 and 3 only.
Learning activities
Map study
The day commences with the students orientating themselves using a compass and topographic map. Students will be required to locate grid coordinates, estimate distance and describe the topography of the days journey.
Bush walk
During the walk, the students will explore parts of the park to identify the different ways people use and value the area. This will also provide them with an opportunity to consider what they value in this area.
Traditional sites visit
The students will visit and learn about important cultural and historical sites, including an Aboriginal engraving site to learn about the cultural value of the landscape and landforms to the traditional owners of the area.
Field sketch
The students will visit a lookout with views over the landscape. There they will be required to complete a field study sketch and cross-section to identify the landforms and describe the geomorphic processes that shape this area.
Geographical tools
The students will use a range of geographical tools to investigate the geomorphic landscape and how this affects the biotic landscape. This includes measuring temperature, humidity, soil pH and gradient.
Investigation of a human landscape
Students will learn about how the landscape has changed over time and describe the impact this has had on the landscape.
Students will list some of the human uses of the investigation area and describe how it is managed and protected.
Sample timetable
Sample Timetable
NOTE: Variations to timetable based on specific location, number of students and weather.
Time | Classes A, B | Classes C, D |
10.00am | Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Map study |
|
10.20am | Morning Tea | |
10.30am | Bush walk Traditional sites visit |
Field sketch Geographical tools |
11.45am | Field sketch Geographical tools |
Bush walk Traditional sites visi |
1.00pm | Lunch | |
1.30pm | Human use and management | |
2.00pm | Conclusion and depart |
Teacher information
Download the program flyer
Excursion locations |
Muogamarra Nature Reserve, Cowan (Terms 2 and 3 only) |
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 | 2024 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2024 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $675 per class. NOTE: National Parks entry is $1.10 per student in addition |
Class numbers and size | Up to 4 classes Max. 30 students per class |
Risk Assessments | View the sample risk assessment 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 arrangments. |
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. |
Syllabus outcomes and content
Geography 7-10 Syllabus
Outcomes
A student:
> locates and describes the diverse features and characetristcis of a range of places and environments GE4-1
> describes processes and influences that form and transfrom places and environments GE4-2
> examines perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical issues GE4-4
> discusses management of places and environments for their sustainability GE4-5
> acquires and processes geographical information by selecting and using geographical tools for inquiry GE4-7
Content
Landscapes and landforms
Students:
- investigate different landscapes and the geomorphic processes that create distinctive landforms, for example: (ACHGK048, ACHGK050)
- idenification of a variety of landscapes and landforms
- explanation of geomorphic processes that create landforms eg weathering, erosion, deposition
- examination of ONE landscape and its distinctive landforms
Value of landscapes and landforms
Students:
- investigate the aesthetic, cultural, spiritual and economic value of landscapes and landforms for people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, for example: (ACHGK049)
- explanantion of the aesthic value of landscapes and landforms to culture and identity
- description of the cultural and spiritual value of landscapes and landforms in different places
Changing landscapes
Students:
- investigate the human causes and effects of landscape degradation, for example: (ACHGK051)
- identification of the ways that people utilise and change landscapes
- description of the impact of a range of human activities on landscapes
Landscape management and protection
Students:
- investigate ways people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Manage and protect landscapes, for example: (ACHGK052)
-description of the naturer and extent of landscape protection across a range of scales eg locally protected places, national parks
- examination of management and protection strategies for ONE landscape
Geographical tools
Maps (M) - topographic maps, maps to identify direction, scale and distance, grid reference, altitude, contour lines, gradient
Fieldwork (F) - observing, measuring, collecting and recording data, fieldwork instruments such as compasses
Visual Representation (VR) - annotated diagrams, field sketches
Geography 7-10 Syllabus © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2015
Program Resources
Landscapes and Landforms Virtual Fieldwork
This virtual excursion resource enables students to study the Landscapes and Landforms content area using West Head and surrounds as a case study. The resource includes maps, 360 images and videos that provide an opportunity for students to identify the landforms, learn more about the geomorphic processes that shaped the area and the value of the area to Aboriginal peoples.