Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre

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

Science - Plant Systems

S4 Plant Systems

Science: Living World

 

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Overview

During the program, the students will work scientifically to study three distinctive vegetation types at Bobbin Head.

Working collaboratively in small groups, the students will use scientific equipment to collect data on the biotic and abiotic features of the identified vegetation communities to compare important features of each site.

Inquiry questions

What plants and animals live in the ecosystems at Bobbin Head?

What features are adaptations for survival and reproduction in this environment?

How do humans impact on this ecosystem?

Excursion locations

This program is offered at the following location. Click on an image to find out more.

Mangrove study and aquatic threats

Bobbin Head is home to two species of mangrove.  Students will be required to classify these species by observing each to identify and describe similarities and differences. They will also be required to explain how their features are adaptations for survival and reproduction in their environment.

Using the information they have learnt about Mangrove function, students will be required to identify and discuss threats to this ecosystem.

Dry Sclerophyll Features

Using fieldwork equipment, the students will research the biophysical features of the dry forest. These tests include aspect, soil pH, air temperature and soil temperature. Using plant ID books, the students will then identify a sample of dry sclerophyll plants and relate their features as adaptations for survival.

Rainforest

In the final activity, students will research the abiotic and biotic features of the remnant rainforest and use these findings to compare to the dry sclerophyll study site.

Aboriginal connections

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

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

Time Class A Class B Class C Class D
10.00am Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am Morning Tea
10.30am Mangrove study and aquatic threats Dry Sclerophyll Features Aboriginal connections
 Rainforest
11.15am

Dry Sclerophyll Features

 Mangrove study and aquatic threats Rainforest Aboriginal connections
12.00pm Aboriginal connections Rainforest Dry Sclerophyll Features Mangrove study and aquatic threats
12.45pm Rainforest Aboriginal connections Mangrove study and aquatic threats Dry Sclerophyll Features
1.30pm Lunch
2.00pm Conclusion and depart

Download the program flyer

Excursion locations Bobbin Head
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

2025 DoE $20 per student - GST free

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

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

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work. We would like to pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging and acknowledge our Aboriginal Elders and knowledge holders who have helped us to understand the special connection Aboriginal Peoples have with the land.

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