Exploring Ecology
In these activities, students explore the connections between local animals and their habitats. Key concepts include: survival needs, adaptations, food chains, interrelationships.
The learning intentions for each activity can be modified to suit the year levels indicated
- Animal Survival (3-6)
- Bird Ecology (4-9)
- Catchment Walk (4-9)
- Freshwater Life (R-9)
- Hidden World (4-9)
- Looking for Evidence (R-6)
- Natures Recyclers (R-7)
- Web of Life Game (R-9)
Students practise the skills of bird watching and identification. They observe bird behaviour and discuss how different species fit into the overall ecology of different habitats. A collection of stuffed bird specimens allows close examination.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
With the aid of maps and a 3D model, students walk through the school property to experience the features of a catchment. They explore how land use affects drainage and water quality and compare this to their local catchment.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
Students collect samples of invertebrates using nets and observe them using magnifiers, microscopes and video camera. They explore feeding relationships, adaptations for survival and habitat requirements of freshwater life.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
Science
Foundation AC9SFU01
Yr 1 AC9S1U01
Yr 3 AC9S3U01
Yr 4 AC9S4U01
Yr 5 AC9S5U01
Yr 7 AC9S7U02
Students explore a ‘hidden world’, so small that is normally invisible to the naked eye. They collect samples from the local environment to look at under microscopes.
Students become ‘bush detectives’ by searching for evidence of animal life in the stringybark forest. Many animals are hard to see due to their behaviour or appearance, but skilled detectives can find evidence of them by careful observation.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
Students search for leaf litter invertebrates and fungi then observe them using magnifiers and microscopes. They learn that nature’s recyclers release nutrients from dead plant and animal material and return them to the soil.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
Students play the roles of predator and prey species in a simulation game. To survive they must locate ‘food’ and ‘water’ that is hidden in an open woodland area. Students learn about animal behaviour and survival strategies.
Examples of Australian Curriculum Links
Science
Yr 1 AC9S1U01
Yr 4 AC9S4U01
Yr 5 AC9S5U01
Yr 6 AC9S6U01
Yr 7 AC9S7U02
