Learning activities
Students follow clues to collect evidence and record digitally in the field, then analyse evidence and present their case.
Inquiry questions
What are the main prey species successfully hunted by foxes in this area of Lane Cove National Park?
What are the adaptations of foxes and of their prey? How are they related or connected?
What are the main species of prey successfully hunted by powerful owls in this area of Lane Cove National Park?
What are the adaptations of powerful owls and of their prey? How are they related or connected?
Investigation
Setting the scene (question and predict)
The students will be given a real-life environmental mystery to solve - the discovery of animal remains in the reserve. Working in groups of four, the students will be challenged to deduce what animals could be the victim (prey) and villain (predator).
Groups will be formed, preliminary information provided, predictions made, skills taught and equipment distributed. Groups will plan their team roles and investigation methods.
Gather the evidence (conduct investigations)
With a focus on animal adaptations, the students will undertake a ‘clue-seeking’ quest through parts of Sugarloaf Point observing and collecting data on evidence such as scratch marks, droppings, fur, feathers, bones, etc. The students will be guided by cryptic clues relating to special locations in the bush. Students record their route and animal evidence observed using maps, notes and the camera app on iPads.
Drawing conclusions (process and analyse data)
The students will analyse and interpret secondary data provided by Field of Mars EEC and their collected or photographed evidence. They will research additional information using iPad apps and digital books, and use higher-order thinking skills to draw conclusions and provide explanations for their claims.
Presenting the case (communicate)
Students will produce scientific arguments to discuss their findings and justify any inferences they make.
