Social stories

Overview

Social stories are simple, visual and text-based guides that help students understand what to expect on an excursion or environmental education activity. At Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre (Field of Mars EEC), our social-story resources make it easier for schools, teachers, students and parents to prepare for excursions, incursions and fieldwork in Sydney bushland and local environments. These stories help clarify routines, safety rules, behavioural expectations and environmental awareness before, during and after a visit.

Social stories are widely used in schools and educational settings to help students — including those with additional learning needs — navigate new or unfamiliar experiences. They describe situations clearly and calmly, showing what will happen, who will be involved, what to do, and what to expect. For some students, this can reduce anxiety, support inclusion, and improve engagement.

Each social story below matches one of our excursions, incursions or learning sequences and can be printed or viewed on a device.

All stages

Helps students understand what to expect when visiting Field of Mars Reserve, including the bus trip, walking on tracks, seeing bushland and following safety rules.

All stages

Prepares students for an excursion to Buffalo Creek Reserve, showing the journey, walking near water and behaving safely in the environment.

Early Stage 1

Introduces Kindergarten students to the idea of special places, and what will happen when they visit or learn about special places with Field of Mars EEC.

Early Stage 1

Explains what will happen during a Teddy bears’ picnic, including bringing a teddy, sitting together, listening to stories and playing games.

Stage 1

Helps students understand that they will learn about Aboriginal connections to Country, listen respectfully, and explore how people care for places.

Stage 1

Shows students what happens on a bushland adventure, including walking on tracks, looking for animals and plants, and staying with their group.

Stage 1

Prepares students to investigate the natural and built features of places, using maps, photos and observations.

Stage 1

Supports students to understand that they will learn about life cycles, look closely at plants and animals, and record what they see.

Stages 2 and 3

Explains that students will work in teams to complete outdoor challenges, use maps and equipment, and cooperate with their group.

Stages 2 and 3

Shows students that they will use iPads or devices outdoors, take photos, create digital artworks and follow instructions safely.

Stages 2 and 3

Prepares students for planning, filming and editing a short documentary, including working in groups, using devices and sharing their work.

Social stories | K-6

Overview

Why we use social stories