Program overview
Join us for an engaging excursion in the Brewongle bush as we investigate the question: Does Brewongle EEC have a healthy ecosystem? Students will participate in interactive, hands-on activities to explore the components of an ecosystem and how they are interconnected.
Outcomes
- Describes the role, structure and function of a range of living systems and their components SC4-LIV-01
- Working scientifically observing - uses scientific tools and instruments for observations SC4-WS-01
- Working scientifically processing data and information - uses a variety of ways to process and represent data SC4-WS-05
- Working scientifically analysing data and information - uses data to identify trends, patterns and relationships and draw conclusions SC4-WS-06
- Working scientifically problem-solving - identifies problem-solving strategies and proposes solutions SC4-WS-07
Content
- Identify the components that make up an ecosystem
- Investigate the interactions of biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem
- Identify how matter and energy are cycled through an ecosystem
- Create a food web and ecological energy pyramid based on local area observations to describe how matter and energy move through an ecosystem
| 1 |
Nest box cameras and terrestrial abiotic testing Students explore Brewongle EEC, searching for our hidden nest boxes to peek at who's living inside. Students then conduct terrestrial abiotic testing to determine how these results may affect the biotic components in an ecosystem. |
| 2 |
Water sort, aquatic abiotic testing and biological indicators Students engage in a hands-on activity to understand the different factors affecting water quality. Following this, they conduct aquatic abiotic testing and use dipnets to catch macroinvertebrates which are used as biological indicators. |
| 3 |
Predator - Prey model Students are taught how energy flows through ecosystems in the form of food chains, food webs and trophic pyramids. They then participate in a game which models these concepts. |
| 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 |
| 10:20 | Nest box cameras and terrestrial abiotic testing |
| 11:20 | Water sort, aquatic abiotic testing and biological indicators |
| 12:20 | LUNCH |
| 12:40 | Predator - Prey model |
| 1:40 |
Results discussion: Students analyse the results collected throughout the day and form a conclusion on whether Brewongle has a healthy ecosystem. 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