Bobbin Head’s intertidal wetland is located in a drowned river valley on the Cowan Creek.
Using the scientific process, scientists and researchers are able to accumulate an evidence-based body of knowledge about the ecosystem functioning and the human interactions, providing a framework to manage human impacts.
This program requires a low tide day to enable the students to study the crabs. Please ask our staff when you are making a booking.
How does observation instigate scientific investigation?
How does primary data provide evidence for further investigation?
How does the collection and presentation of primary data affect the outcome of a scientific investigation?
How do conclusions drawn from the interpretation of primary data promote further scientific investigation?
What inferences can be drawn from observations?
Students will learn about the mangrove forests, focusing on their importance and functioning.
Students will observe the two species of mangroves located in Bobbin Head to determine the differences and similarities. Through this process, they will learn about observation and inference.
Students will observe and record the appearance and behaviour and draw inferences about what they have observed. They will also use keys to determine the species that live on the mudflats.
Following the Working Scientifically process, they will observe and hypothesise to then plan and conduct an investigation for determining the abundance and distribution of crabs across the internal zone.
Students will observe and infer the quality of the estuary water at Bobbin Head. They will then use scientific equipment to measure the water quality, including turbidity, pH and salinity to compare against their initial observations.
Students will visit a cultural significant site to learn about how Aboriginal Peoples use observations to develop an understanding of Country and Place.
Students will also learn about some of the plants that were used for medicinal purposes.
This program is offered at Bobbin Head. Click on the image to find out more about this site.
NOTE: Variations to timetable based on specific location, number of students and weather.
Time | Class A | Class B |
10.00am | Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome | |
10.10am | Morning Tea | |
10.30am | Water quality Mangrove functioning |
Aboriginal understanding of Country and Place |
11.30am | Crab observation Crab distribution |
Crab distribution Crab observation |
12.30pm | Aboriginal understanding of Country and Place | Water quality Mangrove functioning |
1.30pm | Lunch | |
2.00pm | Finish and depart |
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 | 2023 DoE $15 per student - GST free 2023 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $575 per class. NOTE: National Parks entry is $1.10 per student in addition |
Class numbers and size | Up to 2 classes Max. 30 students per class |
Risk Assessments | |
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. |
A student:
> develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigation INS11/12-1
> designs and evaluates investigations in order to obtain primary and secondary data and information INS11/12-2
> conducts investigations to collect valid and reliable primary and secondary data and information INS11/12-3
> selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media INS11/12-4
> examines the use of inferences and generalisations in scientific investigations INS11-9
Module 1: Cause and Effect – Observing
Role of Observations
Students:
- crab hole numbers across the intetidal zone
- water quality
- knowledge about plants for medicinal purposes
Observations as Evidence
Students:
- pose further questions that will be investigated
- discuss the role of variables
- determine the independent and dependent variables
- formulate a hypothesis that links the independent and dependent variables
- describe at least three variables that should be controlled in order to increase the validity of the investigation
- describing how to change the independent variable
- determining the characteristics of the measurements that will form the dependent variable
- describing how the data will be collected
- describing how the controlled variables will be made consistent
- describing how risks can be minimised
Observing, Collecting and Recording Data
Students:
- tabulation
- graphing
Conclusions Promote Further Observations
Students:
Module 2: Cause and Effect – Inferences and Generalisations
Observations and Inferences
Students:
- leaching of toxins in bush tucker
Investigating Science Stage 6 Syllabus © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2017
address Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Bobbin Head Road Picnic Area, North Turramurra NSW 2074
telephone 02 9457 8245
website gibberagon-e.schools.nsw.gov.au
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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