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School excursion

Special Offer

A dynamic ecosystem: Minnamurra Rainforest

Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Biology, Budderoo National Park

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Overview

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Senior biology students will hone their skills on this Stage 6 (Years 11-12) fieldwork study at Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park. They'll conduct fieldwork, gather data and identify distinguishing features of the rainforest.

Read more about A dynamic ecosystem: Minnamurra Rainforest

This school excursion provides a unique opportunity for students to use a variety of fieldwork sampling techniques. Students will gather diverse data and obtain a solid understanding of this fragile and important ecosystem.

This biology excursion is designed to support Module 3 (Biological diversity) and Module 4 (Ecosystem dynamics) of the syllabus, and contributes 5 hours towards a depth study.

For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers

Stage Stage 6 (Years 11-12)
Learning area Biology
Student outcomes

BIO11/12-7. Communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose

BIO11-10. Describes biological diversity by explaining the relationship between a range of organisms in terms of specialisation for selected habitats and evolution of species

BIO11-11. Analyses ecosystem dynamics and the interrelationships of organisms within the ecosystem
Objectives

Students will:

  • Identify some of the distinguishing features of the rainforest as a local ecosystem
  • Use scientific instruments to measure some abiotic factors in the rainforest
  • Observe the plants and animals that live in the rainforest
  • Discuss how rainforest species have adapted to their environment
  • Measure and record abundance and distribution of species using a transect and quadrats
  • Identify some of the relationships between rainforest species, including predation, competition and symbiosis.
  • Use scientific equipment to measure a range of abiotic factors relevant to the ecosystem, such as temperature, humidity, salinity, soil pH, water pH, sunlight intensity, wind speed and direction.
  • Observe and summarise impacts of human activity on the ecosystem

Key inquiry questions:

  • How do adaptations increase the organism's ability to survive?
  • What effect can one species have on the other species in a community?
  • How can human activity impact on an ecosystem?

Excursion details

Availability
Guided. Available on request. Different length programs are available upon consultation.
Where
Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, Budderoo National Park
Duration
2-5 hr
Grading
Easy. Fieldwork will take place along river beside the rainforest path.
Price

Minimum $550 per group for up to 25 students, $22 per student (includes GST).

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Meeting point
Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
Equipment
provided
Yes. Worksheet masters, pre and post-activity resources, and additional references will be provided on booking.
Booking
If you would like to organise a NPWS school excursion please get in touch with local staff or use the 'Enquire' link for the online form.
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