Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Students investigate the role of conservation in zoos. They begin by finding out what conservation is and then look at a case study of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot. They then investigate animals and conservation further by working in groups to research an animal involved in a conservation program (if you are planning to visit a zoo after this lesson, then this animal can be found at the zoo you are visiting – alternative materials have been provided for those not visiting a zoo). Finally, students create an artwork of this animal in its natural habitat to share with classmates.
This lesson has been developed in partnership with Zoos Victoria. Zoos Victoria is a zoo-based conservation organisation whose mission is to fight extinction and support Victorians to be the world’s most wildlife friendly community through being caring, informed and active. Zoos Victoria operate three zoos: Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary. Click here to find out more about Zoos Victoria and their work on fighting extinction.
Learning intentions:
- Students understand what conservation is.
- Students understand why we need conservation programs for some animals.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Foundation Science
- Living things have basic needs, including food and water (ACSSU002)
Year 1 Science
- Living things live in different places where their needs are met (ACSSU211)
- People use science in their daily lives, including when caring for their environment and living things (ACSHE022)
Year 2 Science
- Living things grow, change and have offspring similar to themselves (ACSSU030)
- People use science in their daily lives, including when caring for their environment and living things (ACSHE035)
Syllabus outcomes: STe-8NE, ST1-11LW, ST1-10LW.
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking, Ethical Understanding
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability OI.2, OI.7, OI.9.
Relevant parts of Foundation Science achievement standards: Students suggest how the environment affects them and other living things.
Relevant parts of Year 1 Science achievement standards: Students describe changes in their local environment and how different places meet the needs of living things.
Relevant parts of Year 2 Science achievement standards: Students describe changes to living things and describe examples of where science is used in people’s daily lives.
Topic: Biodiversity.
Unit of work: Fighting Extinction – Primary
Time required: 60-80 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – lead students in guided discussion, guide students through activities.
Resources required: Student Worksheets – one copy per student. Device capable of presenting a video to the class. Art materials. One printed copy of the Learning Journal for each student (or invite students to access the Learning Journal used in the Tuning In lesson). Extinct Animal Images. Corroboree Frog Factsheet.
Keywords: Zoos Victoria, zoo, fighting extinction, extinction, animals, conservation, conservation program, Eastern Barred Bandicoot.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
Teacher preparation
