Classification and adaptations excursion | Stage 4 Science

Fieldwork activities

Activities may change to suit student needs, timing and weather conditions.

Invertebrate classification

Students work in teams and use scientific equipment to safely collect, identify and observe terrestrial invertebrates. They compare observable structural features and construct a dichotomous key based on their field observations.

Vertebrate adaptations

Students use field journalling to closely observe a native lizard. They record structural and behavioural adaptations and explain how these features support survival in its environment.

Plant classification and adaptations

Students use dichotomous keys and fieldwork instruments to identify, observe and measure native plants and their structural features. They use their field data to explain how particular features help plants survive in the local environment.

Aboriginal classification systems

Through sensory and hands-on activities, students investigate traditional uses of native plants and consider how plants are classified by Darug Peoples according to their uses and functions.

Worksheet and supporting resources

Student worksheet

Access the Classification and adaptations student worksheet.

Schools are responsible for printing one worksheet for each student before the excursion.

Assessment task

Access the sample field guide assessment task.

Teacher and student resources

Download the Australian plant adaptations fact sheet.

Download the Eucalypt forest - Digital Book for iPads and Macs

View the Fieldwork techniques learning resource.

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B, C and D	Class E, F, G and H
9.30–10.00	Introduction, fieldwork preparation, food break and toilets
10.00–11.30	Plant investigations	Animal investigations
11.30–12.00	Food break and toilets
12.00–1.30	Animal investigations	Plant investigations
1.30–2.00	Food break and toilets
2.00–2.15	Conclusion and depart

The timetable may change according to class numbers, student learning needs and weather.

Syllabus outcomes and content

Students will learn to

• classify organisms using observable structural features
• construct and interpret dichotomous keys
• investigate structural and behavioural adaptations
• use scientific tools to collect field observations and measurements
• record and communicate findings using tables, dichotomous keys, field journals, scientific names and written explanations
• investigate how Darug Peoples classify native plants according to their uses and functions

Science 7–10 Syllabus (2023)

Focus area

Cells and classification

Outcome

• SC4-CLS-01 – describes the unique features of cells in living things and how structural features can be used to classify organisms

Working Scientifically outcomes

• SC4-WS-01 – uses scientific tools and instruments for observations
• SC4-WS-04 – follows a planned procedure to undertake safe and valid investigations
• SC4-WS-08 – communicates scientific concepts and ideas using a range of communication forms

Content

Classification of living things

Students:

• Conduct an investigation to observe and identify the similarities and differences of structural features within and between groups of organisms
• Investigate how organisms in an Australian habitat are adapted to their environment
• Interpret dichotomous keys to identify organisms surveyed in an Australian habitat

NSW Curriculum Science 7–10 Syllabus (2023) © NSW Education Standards Authority for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2023

Vocabulary

adaptation, behavioural adaptation, classification, dichotomous key, evidence, field journal, invertebrate, organism, scientific name, species, structural adaptation, structural feature, validity, vertebrate

Cost, class numbers and booking

Cost

DoE $27 per student – GST free

Non-government school $37 per student – GST free, minimum charge $750 per class

Classes

Maximum 8 classes, with up to 30 students per class.

Program costs

Program costs may change. If program costs change after you book, you will be charged at the original cost.

Booking policy

Confirm final student numbers and classes 7 working school days before the program.

Book this Stage 4 Science excursion

Risk assessment and accessibility

Field of Mars Reserve risk assessment and location information – main location⁠

The program includes bushwalking on uneven natural tracks. Some program areas at Field of Mars Reserve may be wheelchair accessible.

Students who are unwell should not attend.

Classroom teachers are expected to attend and actively supervise students throughout the excursion.

Notify Field of Mars EEC before the visit about medical, mobility, sensory, communication or other support needs so reasonable adjustments can be considered.

View location information

What to bring and prepare

School preparation

• Print one worksheet for each student
• Organise students into suitable working groups
• Ensure students bring writing materials and a clipboard
• Review relevant fieldwork techniques or supporting resources
• Advise Field of Mars EEC of learning, medical or access requirements

Students should bring

School sports uniform, backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunscreen, raincoat, hat, sturdy enclosed shoes, pencils, clipboard and a reusable name tag.

Weather, cancellations and rescheduling

The program may be modified, postponed or cancelled because of predicted extreme temperatures, bush fire danger, heavy rainfall, flooding, severe storms, high winds, smoke, poor air quality or dust storms.

Cancellation or rescheduling with less than 30 school days’ notice before the booking date – $650

Cancellation with less than 14 school days’ notice before the booking date – full program cost

Cancellation due to unsafe weather or fire danger – $0