Year 8 Geography – Water in the world

Syllabus outcomes

GE4-2 Describes processes and influences that form and transform places and environments.

GE4-3 Explains how interactions and connections between people, places and environments result in change.

GE4-5 Discusses management of places and environments for their sustainability

GE4-7 Acquires and processes geographical information by selecting and using geographical tools for inquiry.

Learning intention

Water Quality: what are the compared results to ideal standards for estuarine environments?

Aquaculture: what is the role of oyster farming and its economic significance?

Sewerage Treatment: how is wastewater is managed and its environmental impact?

GIS Mapping: Present a Google Map screenshot with key locations marked.

Analyse: how human activities influence the health of Merimbula Lake?

Aquaculture Industry - on site

Oyster farmers explain the role of oyster farming and its economic significance. What is required to grow a healthy oyster and the equipment/techniques used to grow oysters. Oysters farmers discuss what management strategies and sustainable practices the aquaculture industry have in place to protect the ecosystem.

Estuary Biodiversity/Mangrove study

Students disembark the bus at Spencer Park, Merimbula. Observe and discuss the importance of mangroves -habitat and breeding grounds/nursery for many marine species. Stabilising shorelines and reducing erosion.

Water quality investigation/Catchment Health

Water quality investigation (kayaking, testing pH, salinity, turbidity, temperature). Students compare results to ideal standards for estuarine environments.

Merimbula Sewage Treatment Plant - visits are organised with Bega Valley Shire Council

Students are shown the Sewage Treatment Plant, with the cycle and the quality of the final output discussed. Students will need to describe how wastewater is managed and its environmental impact.

Human Impacts

GIS mapping - students mark key locations on a Google map screen shot and analyse how human activities influence the health of Merimbula Lake. Students are required to determine management strategies or actions that are in place, or should be in place.

Cost

$5 per student per day.

Location

BEEC staff will liaise with you to determine the best location to meet for your program.