Learning activities
Students follow the meanders of the lower Lane Cove River investigating the multiple layers of place. Commencing with acclimatisation activities students engage in place based inquiry investigating the processes and influences that create and shape landscapes and landforms in the riverine landscape. The study site will stimulate student thinking on the environmental, economic, recreational and cultural value of the Lane Cove River with particular reference to local Aboriginal Peoples.
Inquiry questions
- What are the features and characteristics of a riverine landscape?
- What geomorphic processes of tectonic activity, weathering, erosion and deposition create and shape the riverine landscape?
- How do people value and protect riverine landscapes?
- What Knowledges and Practices are used by Aboriginal Peoples to manage and care for Country?
Fieldwork
Students will engage in multiple fieldwork activities using digital and non-digital geographic tools to encourage deep thinking about the features and characteristics of riverine landscapes and the management strategies employed to protect them.
The journey will commence with an Acknowledgement of Country and storytelling to recognise Sydney-based Aboriginal People's physical, spiritual and cultural Connection to Country. Students will engage in activities to tune in to their surroundings to develop and recognise their own connections to place. Stimulus materials and open recording options will provide for multi-sensory experiences to encourage student-centered investigations and inquiry.
Students will use scientific equipment to collect quantitative data on the biophysical features of the riverine landscape. Aspects of fluvial geomorphology will be explained and students will observe weathered rocks and erosional and depositional landforms.
Students will investigate the environmental, economic, recreational and cultural values of landscapes and landforms held by different people including Aboriginal Peoples. Teacher-led and student-directed activities will promote understanding of Aborignal Connections to Country and place, how it was cared for and how it was utilised by Aboriginal Peoples.
To conclude, students will observe management strategies that protect the Lane Cove River and its environments.
