Program summary
Years: 11–12
Time: Full day program (5 hours)
Maximum number: 1 class group (up to 30 students)
Description
Weed Invasion
Unit 3: Topic 2 - Responding to Local Land Cover Transformations
Assessment: Investigation – Field Report (IA2)
Students will conduct a field investigation into the challenges of managing a site that has undergone land cover transformation as a consequence of invasive exotic plants.
Through experiential learning, students will apply a range of geographical skills to collect, understand and explain data. The site(s) to be investigated are located on sand islands in Moreton Bay (Quandamooka) and can include South Stradbroke Island and/or Woogoompah Island. They may use the Invasion Triangle Model as their conceptual model to analyse data and to propose sustainable management strategies. Upon return to school, students analyse, interpret and represent data to communicate geographical understanding in a field report.
Optional: Overnight camp. An overnight camp would allow time for investigating more than one site. We can tailor a camp program to specifically meet your requirements.
Variation: Whilst the program has been designed for investigating a sand island in Moreton Bay, the focus can be relocated to a site on the mainland, or to a site closer to your school. For example, potential sites for investigation could include sites along the Pimpama River or bushland reserves. Choice of locations are subject to permits from local authorities.
Pre-requisites: Resources will be provided to teachers to equip students with background knowledge and to develop field skills required for the excursion. It is recommended that students commence preparation for their inquiry prior to the investigation.
Requirements: Students are required to wear a hat while outdoors. It is recommended that students wear long trousers, long-sleeved shirts and runners or walking boots whilst on the excursion for personal protection. A change of shoes may be required as participants will almost certainly be getting their shoes wet.
NB: Participants may be walking distances of more than two kilometres, sometimes over sand dunes.