Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Students design and implement a variety of projects around the school that will enhance the biodiversity of their school and the local area.
Learning goals:
- Students understand that different kinds of projects enhance different aspects of biodiversity.
- Students recognise that planting indigenous species is important for biodiversity.
- Students understand that biodiversity projects on school grounds need to relate to land use and the local physical conditions.
Following this lesson is an ideal way for students to participate in Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day – the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. You and your students will join thousands of amazing teachers in making a difference, fostering a child’s love of nature and creating positive environmental change. So, get growing! It only takes a minute to register for Schools Tree Day.
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content description:
Year 5 Science
- Living things have structural features and adaptations that help them to survive in their environment (ACSSU043)
- Scientific knowledge is used to inform personal and community decisions (ACSHE217)
Year 6 Science
- The growth and survival of living things are affected by the physical conditions of their environment (ACSSU094)
- Scientific knowledge is used to inform personal and community decisions (ACSHE220)
Syllabus Outcomes: ST3-6PW, ST3-10LW, ST3-11LW.
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability OI.2.
Topic: Biodiversity, Schools Tree Day.
Time required: 60 mins (plus planting)
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – Lead discussion, review students’ findings in this unit when it is relevant.
Resources required: School grounds map, whiteboard or smartboard, resources from previous biodiversity activities, local indigenous nurseries information and contacts, Student Worksheet – one copy per student OR computers/tablets to access the online worksheet.
Digital technology opportunities: Digital sharing capabilities.
Homework and extension opportunities: None.
Keywords: Biodiversity, ecosystem, conservation, planting.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.