Planet Earth is our home
Stage 1 - Science and Technology
Program
'Planet Earth is our home' is a Stage 1 excursion delivered at Longneck Lagoon Environmental Education Centre. Students explore how weather and seasonal changes shape the natural world. Through hands-on activities, they record weather data, identify seasonal knowledge used by Dharug people, and investigate the features and properties of rocks. The program builds observation skills, curiosity, and an appreciation of both science and culture in nature.
Important information
Science and Technology K-6 syllabus (2024)
ST1-SCI-01
Measures and describes changes in living things, materials, movement, Earth and the sky
ST1-PQU-01
Poses questions based on observations and information to investigate cause and effect
ST1-DAT-01
Collects, represents and uses data to identify patterns and relationships
Content
Planet Earth is our home
- Observe and record daily weather to identify changes and patterns
- Investigate how seasonal patterns influence the behaviour and appearance of living things
- Describe the ways in which Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples use seasonal indicators
- Manipulate different rocks and describe their texture, colour and grain or crystal size
Students will:
- observe and record weather conditions using scientific equipment
- investigate the influence of seasonal patterns on the plants and animals that live around Longneck Lagoon
- explore how Dharug people use various local plants and animals as seasonal indicators
- conduct experiments and use microscopes to learn more about the properties of different types of rocks.
| Vehicle access |
Address: 59 Whitmore Road, Maraylya Large buses/coaches can drop students and teachers at the entrance on Whitmore Road. It is a 400m walk down the drive to the classroom. Bus drop off and pick up should be timed to allow for the walk from the road to the classroom. These times can be negotiated as needed to allow for earlier or later start and finish times. Minibuses and visitors arriving by private car can enter the gates on Whitmore Road and drive part way down the drive to the signposted 'Visitor parking' area near the mud brick shed. It is a short 100m walk from the visitor parking area to the classroom and office area. We kindly ask that visitors do not drive beyond this point in order to ensure the safety of our students. |
| Student numbers |
Up to 3 classes Max. 30 students per class (Please book for multiple dates if numbers exceed 90 students) |
| What to bring |
Students
Teachers
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| Adverse weather | On days where the weather is unsuitable, a Longneck Lagoon EEC staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements. |
| Medical notifications | Notify Longneck Lagoon EEC by completing and returning the student welfare form at least one week before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking. |
| Further information | Welcome to Longneck Lagoon EEC |