Overview
Investigating the Forest Environment is a whole day program where students take on the role of a junior biologist to identify and investigate a keystone species. Throughout the day, students user Vernier dataloggers to collect a range of abiotic data, as well as capture terrestrial invertebrates (biotic data). They also apply their knowledge of classification to assemble and use dichotomous keys and construct and interpret food webs. These activities assist the students to understand the keystone species ability to influence and shape biodiversity and therefore their environment.
To conclude, the students will evaluate the climate change threat to the keystone species from anticipated increases in storm frequency and bushfires.
Investigating the Forest Environment has been assessed as medium risk. A Curriculum Activity Risk Assessment (CARA) is available on request. A student field booklet will be provided upon confirmation of your booking.
Curriculum Intent
Science Understanding
- Investigate the role of classification in ordering and organising the diversity of life on Earth and use and develop classification tools including dichotomous keys (AC9S7U01)
- Use models, including food webs, to represent matter and energy flow in ecosystems and predict the impact of changing abiotic and biotic factors on populations (AC9S7U02)
Science Inquiry Skills
- Select and construct appropriate representations, including tables, graphs, models and mathematical relationships, to organise and process data and information (AC9S7I04)
Science as a Human Endeavour
- Explain how new evidence or different perspectives can lead to changes in scientific knowledge (AC9S7H01)
- Investigate how cultural perspectives and world views influence the development of scientific knowledge (AC9S7H02)