Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity - Towra Point Nature Reserve | Kamay Botany Bay EEC
Stage 6 - Geography
Locations
Woolooware Wader Lagoon and Towra Point Nature Reserve, Kurnell
Overview
This excursion offers students a unique opportunity to investigate the intertidal wetland ecosystem at this RAMSAR listed site.
Students investigate the functioning of ecosystems, their value, the roles of natural and human stresses, and trends in global biodiversity.
- GE-12-01 - analyses rural and urban places, ecosystems, global biodiversity and economic activity, for their characteristics, spatial patterns, interactions, and nature and extent of change over time
- GE-12-02 - analyses geographical processes and influences, at a range of scales, that form and transform places and environments
- GE-12-03 - assesses geographical opportunities and challenges, and the role of varying perspectives and responses in their management
- GE-12-04 - evaluates responses and management strategies, at a range of scales, for sustainability
- GE-12-05 -synthesises and evaluates relevant geographical information from a variety of sources
- GE-12-07 - selects and applies geographical inquiry skills and tools, including spatial technologies, fieldwork, and ethical practices, to investigate places and environments
- GE-12-09 -communicates and applies geographical understanding, using geographical knowledge, concepts, terms and tools, in appropriate forms
- How does this ecosytem function?
- Why is this ecosystem valued?
- What natural and human stressors are effecting this ecosystem?
- What are the trends for this particular ecosystem within a global biodiversity context?
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures
- Sustainability
- Literacy
- Numeracy
Students will
- Observe both migratory and local shorebirds first hand
- Interpret and annotate a spacial map
- Observe and record the unique features of an intertidal wetland ecosystem
- Construct a flow diagram to describe the characteristics of the ecosystem
- Collect abiotic data and observe its impact on biotics
- Observe and assess human impacts and management strategies including traditional and contemporary management practices
"Experiencing the ecosystem in person. Seeing the changes in it - hard to do from just google maps and photos."
"People who run the program and are behind the scenes are excellent and very accommodating in every aspect. Cannot recommend it more."
"Strengthened students' sense of belonging by creating shared outdoor learning experiences. Completing hands-on activities (the collection of biotic and abiotic factors) fostered a connection to the place. Being immersed in nature supported students’ engagement and curiosity."