An engaging Biology program that takes learners beyond the capacity of the classroom to discover the physical conditions of many different local environments.
Students are called to action as scientists and locals have noticed certain plants and animal species are disappearing, while others are thriving in unexpected areas. A short barge ride to the northern end of Facing Island in the Gladstone harbour is one setting for this program or alternatively, this program can be offered at Canoe Point, Tannum Sands. Both settings provide a rich variety of ecosystems to study including salt marsh, coastal sand dunes, rocky shore, coastal Casuarina Forest and mangroves. Taking on the role of EcoExplorers, students set upon their self-guided journey to investigate the physical conditions of different ecosystems and how these affect the growth and survival of living things. They are challenged to collect data on abiotic and biotic conditions at each area using scientific tools from their adventure pack. They also adopt the role of Citizen Scientists and collect marine debris on Facing Island.
The Eco Explorers Program Overview contains detailed curriculum links and is available to download in the Related Links on the right.