Earth's natural systems excursion
Geography
Program
Students will work in small groups to undertake geographic inquiry in the field. They will investigate questions that focus on the characteristics and functioning of the natural systems in a forest environment. Data will be collected using different fieldwork and sampling techniques, and analysed to identify the processes and cycles that shape the forest environment. Conclusions are made on how connections between natural systems influence the establishment of different forest types at the Field of Mars Reserve.
Inquiry questions
What are the characteristics of the ecological, atmospheric, hydrological and geomorphic systems that make up the eucalypt forest at the Field of Mars Reserve?
How do natural processes and cycles influence primary productivity of the eucalypt forest at the Field of Mars Reserve?
How do people value and connect with nature in an urban setting?
Fieldwork
By engaging in nature journaling, students are introduced to common keystone tree species found in the eucalypt forest at the Field of Mars Reserve whilst practising the skills of observing and recording.
Students will then conduct comprehensive and systematic sampling of the dry sclerophyll forest in the Field of Mars Reserve. They will use fieldwork instruments to test a range of abiotic and biotic factors characterising the four natural systems. Using graphic organisers, students will be guided through an interpretation of their results to identify the processes and cycles that support forest functioning.
Students apply their knowledge and skills to plan and conduct a fieldwork investigation in the wet sclerophyll forest, using their data to explain spatial changes in vegetation productivity throughout the Field of Mars Reserve.
Throughout the day students will be encouraged to consider their own connections to nature to understand how people value and connect to nature on a larger scale.
