Stage 6 - Biology

Evolution and Ecosystems - Ecosystem Dynamics

Science

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Program Overview

** This program schedule will be starting in 2027, in accordance with the current syllabus changes**

This unique and highly engaging program allows students to perform a first-hand investigation to measure a range of abiotic and biotic factors in a freshwater ecosystem using various scientific equipment and data collection methods. Students measure populations of organisms using sampling techniques. Students then analyse the data collected and observe the abiotic-biotic relationships that exist and their interdependence. An example of a recent local extinction event through predation is explained. Quadrat sampling techniques and aquatic / terrestrial data collection is also included.

Students are guaranteed to be involved in a number of engaging and hands-on experiences during the course of the day. Through these students will further develop their knowledge and understanding, fieldwork and group work skills.

Focus

Science Focus Area

Stage 6: Ecosystem Dynamics

Note:

This excursion can also be used as a model for a DEPTH STUDY.

This program can be combined with the Investigating Science (Cause and Effect) Program.

Water Testing - Abiotic data collection

Macro-invertebrates - Biotic data collection

Bird Observation, Recording and Analysis - Biotic data collection

Measuring slope with a clinometer

Program Activities

Introduction to Penrith Lakes and the development of the local freshwater ecosystem

Recess

Aquatic Bird Observation, Recording and Analysis - Biotic Data Collection

Water and Soil Testing - Abiotic data collection

Dipnetting for Macroinvertebrates - Biotic Data Collection

Belt & Quadrat Sampling Method - Biotic Data Collection

Lunch

Wrap up - ‘How healthy is the Penrith Lakes Ecosystem’? Interpretation and analysis of data collected

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Key Syllabus Outcomes

Stage 6 - Biology - Evolution and Ecosystems - Ecosystem Dynamics

BI-11WS-01Working Scientifically Questioning and predicting

develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigations
BI-11WS-02Working Scientifically Planning scientific investigations

designs and evaluates scientific investigations
BI-11WS-03Working Scientifically Conducting scientific investigations

conducts scientific investigations to collect data and information
BI-11WS-04Working Scientifically Processing data and information

selects and processes qualitative and quantitative data and information
BI-11WS-05Working Scientifically Analysing data and information

analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information
BI-11-03 analyses the relationships between organisms and their environment using the theory of evolution by natural selection

From biology-stage-6-syllabus-2027

Key Content

Ecosystem Dynamics

Conduct a practical investigation to collect and analyse abiotic and biotic data, to discuss the features of an ecosystem
Compare abiotic data from an aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems
Explain how abiotic and biotic factors influence the abundance, distribution and diversity of species in an ecosystem
Compare sampling techniques to estimate distribution and abundance of organisms
Conduct a practical investigation to examine the distribution and abundance of aquatic plants using belt transect and quadrat sampling techniques
Use an example to determine relationships between organisms, including predation & competition
Analyse data on the impact of predator–prey relationships and competition on populations
Explain how the carrying capacity of a selected ecosystem is affected by biotic and abiotic factors
Evaluate the validity, reliability and accuracy of ecological sampling data when drawing conclusions about ecosystem dynamics

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