Stage 6 - Investigating Science (Cause & Effect)

Science

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Program Overview

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. There is also a look at past and future ecosystems at Penrith Lakes.

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: 'Cause and Effect' - Inferences and Generalisations

Note:

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

This program can be combined with the Biology (Ecosystem Dynamics) 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

Bird Observation, Recording and Analysis - Biotic data collection

Water Testing - Abiotic data collection

Macro-invertebrates - Biotic data collection

Lunch

Wrap up – How healthy is the Penrith lakes Ecosystem? Interpretation of data collected. Human impacts on the ecosystem dating back to the traditional owners is analysed.

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Key Syllabus Outcomes

Stage 6 - Investigating Science - Cause and Effect - Inferences and Generalisations

INS 11/12-1 develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigation
INS11/12-2 designs and evaluates investigations in order to obtain primary and secondary data and information
INS11/12-4 selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media
INS11-9 examines the use of inferences and generalisations in scientific investigations.

Key Content

What inferences can be drawn from observations?

Conduct a collaborative practical investigation and collect a range of qualitative and quantitative primary data from water quality of a lake
Make inferences and conclusions derived from the primary data collected in this collaborative practical investigation

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