S1-3 Wetlands experience

Wetlands experience

Stages 1-3

Location

Woolooware Wader Lagoon and Bonna Point Reserve, Kurnell

Overview

This excursion will provide primary school students with an opportunity to explore Woolooware Wader Lagoon and Bonna Point Reserve in Kurnell, immersing them in the unique ecosystems of these wetlands. Through observation, inquiry, and hands-on activities, students will learn about the importance of wetlands in the natural environment.

This excursion to Woolooware Wader Lagoon and Bonna Point Reserve aims to provide students with an immersive educational experience that deepens their understanding of wetland ecosystems. By integrating classroom learning with field activities, students will develop critical thinking skills and a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.

Key Inquiry questions

• What are wetlands, and why are they important to our environment?
• How do living organisms adapt to survive in wetland habitats?
•  How can we group birds?
• How are environments and birds interdependent?
• What actions can we take to protect and conserve our wetlands?

Students will

• Introduction to Wetlands (Classroom):
  • Begin with a brief introduction to wetlands, discussing their features, significance, and the specific sites of Woolooware Wader Lagoon and Bonna Point.
  • Utilize multimedia presentations to show images and videos of the wetlands.
• Field Observation at Woolooware Wader Lagoon:
  • visit of the Woolooware Wader Lagoon Viewing Platform with a focus on identifying plant and animal species.
  • Use of binoculars to observe bird species and plant life.
  • Discussion on the importance of wetlands for bird migration and habitat, focusing on adaptations of species such as mangroves and shorebirds.
• Interactive Learning at Bonna Point:
  • Creative Arts activity completing a scientific bird sketch
  • Birdwatching session with identification guides for students to recognise different bird species.
  • Participate in a beak game that develops students' skills in learning about birds' adaptations
  • Exploration of the mangrove area, beach and woodland ecosystems with discussions on the role of mangroves in coastal protection and ecosystem health.
• Reflection and Discussion (On-Site and classroom):
  • Students will share their observations and findings from the day.
  • Group discussion on how to implement sustainable practices to protect wetlands.
  • Develop action plans for raising awareness about wetland conservation, potentially linking to community projects.