Program overview
Students will explore the variety of Australian life found at Brewongle Environmental Education Centre. While visiting our ponds, they will have the opportunity to catch and observe the defining structures of a variety of aquatic macroinvertebrates. Through a practical investigation, students will learn how Australian fauna are adapted to their environment. Unique flora species will be located and identified using a dichotomous key in a scavenger hunt inspired activity.
This program is depth study compatible.
Outcomes
- Describes the unique features of cells in living things and how structural features can be used to classify organisms SC4-CLS-01
- Uses scientific tools and instruments for observations SC4-WS-01
- Follows a planned procedure to undertake safe and valid investigations SC4-WS-04
Content
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Conduct an investigation to observe and identify the similarities and differences of structural features within and between groups of organisms.
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Investigate how organisms in an Australian habitat are adapted to their environment and document findings in a written scientific report
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Interpret dichotomous keys to identify organisms surveyed in an Australian habitat
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Explain how plants and animals are classified in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures based on their uses, forms and functions
| 1 |
Dip netting bug identification In this hands-on activity, students catch a variety of aquatic bugs in our ponds and use stereo microscopes to observe the structural features which classify them. |
| 2 |
Modelling camouflage Using inspiration for local fauna, students will conduct an investigation which models the use of camouflage in a predator prey scenario. |
| 3 |
Plant hunt Using a map and a dichotomous key, students navigate through the bush to locate and identify local native flora. Each correctly identified flora species reveals more information to a final question in this scavenger hunt inspired activity. |
| Activity social story coming soon! | |
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Sample of a 1 group program For multiple groups/classes, the same activities are run on an alternating schedule |
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| 9:45 |
Welcome to Brewongle Safety briefing |
| 10:00 | RECESS |
| 10:15 | Dip netting bug identification |
| 11:15 | Modelling camouflage |
| 12:15 | LUNCH |
| 12:45 | Plant hunt |
| 1:45 | Reflection of activities / Wrap up / Toilets |
| 2:00 | Farewell |
| Location | Brewongle Environmental Education Centre, Sackville North |
| Transport |
Buses are booked by the visiting school. A map to the bus parking will be sent with the schools confirmation email. Please ensure you print the map and give to the bus driver the morning of the excursion. |
| Program costs | Program costs |
| Student numbers |
Maximum student numbers are 30 students per class - up to 6 classes per day No minimum student numbers (instead possible minimum costs) |
| Supporting teachers and staff | Minimum requirement is one teacher per attending class |
| Program start and finish times |
Brewongle arrival time is 9:45 am - departure time is 2 pm * discuss prior to your visit if you require alternate times |
| Medical and welfare notifications |
Using the Brewongle medical and welfare form (sent with the confirmation email), inform Brewongle staff of any medical conditions or special requirements prior to the visit This program can be adapted for teachers and students with specific mobility requirements |
| Adverse weather |
Visit our visitor information page to view our weather trigger points for program changes On days where the weather is unsuitable, a Brewongle staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements |
| Booking and cancellation policy requirements |
Brewongle booking and cancellation policy Student attendance numbers confirmed 7 days prior to visit Cancellation fees may apply |
| Inclusive learning support | Visit our inclusive education website for further excursion support materials |
Booking enquiries
Get in touch to ask a question, plan a visit or find out more about what we offer