Snail sleuths
Stage 4 - Science
Program
Students will investigate the complex nature of ecosystems in local Cumberland Plain Woodlands. Emphasis will be on food chains and webs, with a particular focus on the Cumberland Plain Land Snail. While learning about the impact of human activities in the local area, students will undertake fieldwork to assess the suitability of the ecosystem for the endangered snail species. They will draw on their new knowledge to make recommendations about how the ecosystem could be conserved or improved.
Important information
Science 7 - 10 Syllabus (2023)
SC4-WS-01 uses scientific tools and instruments for observations
SC4-LIV-01 describes the role, structure and function of a range of living systems and their components
Content
Ecosystems
- Identify the components that make up an ecosystem
- Investigate the interactions of biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem
- Identify how matter and energy are cycled through an ecosystem
- Create a food web and ecological energy pyramid based on local area observations to describe how matter and energy move through an ecosystem
- Examine secondary-source data on the factors that change populations, including the introduction of a new species to an ecosystem, to identify trends, patterns and relationships, and draw conclusions
Students will:
- investigate food chains and food webs in an interactive game
- undertake a snail habitat assessment by testing terrestrial parameters
- assess evidence of human impacts on the Cumberland Plain Woodland.
| 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 Rd 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 |
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 |