Year 3 Bialik in the Bush

Cultivating Environmental Stewardship: Year 3 Bialik in the Bush Science Program

In the Year 3 Bialik in the Bush Science Program, students embarked on a series of four educational excursions designed to explore and analyse thriving ecosystems. These excursions aimed to provide students with valuable insights into the intricate relationships between flora, fauna, and soil, fostering an understanding of how to create and sustain healthy native habitats. The culmination of this immersive experience saw students applying their newfound knowledge to the ambitious task of designing and constructing their own Bialik Wetlands within the confines of our urban school environment.

Developing Scientific Inquiry Skills:

Pre excursions students actively engaged in crafting questions to ask the science experts, honing their literacy skills while simultaneously developing scientific inquiry skills. They learnt how to pose questions that they then investigated scientifically, fostering critical thinking and curiosity. Predicting outcomes based on prior knowledge was essential and laid the groundwork for students to understand the importance of scientific method when collecting and recording data for decision making.

Learning from Science Experts in the field:

During the excursions, students had the unique opportunity to learn from Landcare scientists and scientist Eliza, a representative from the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater Inc, they illuminated the significance of fostering biodiversity in our ecosystems. They emphasized the crucial role played by different canopies of flora in supporting thriving ecosystems. This knowledge was particularly underscored by understanding the role of vegetation in preventing the extinction of species such as the Helmeted Honeyeater. Students actively participated in planting native flowering bushes. This hands-on experience allowed them to contribute directly to the preservation of the Helmeted Honeyeater, highlighting the students' role in environmental conservation.

Qualitative and Quantitative Data Collection:

To further enrich their scientific exploration, students were taught the importance of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. This allowed students to observe and record information about the planted habitats and their impact on local biodiversity. Mapping skills were also developed, providing students with the skills to interpret a visual representation of a local environment to enable them to develop a map and design of their own Bialik Wetlands.

Strategic Planting to create a Bialik Wetlands:

At school students applied their learning from the excursions to design and map their desired outcome for a Bialik Wetlands. They completed a biodiversity audit and strategically selected and planted a diverse range of native plant species, creating various canopy levels. This intentional planning served a dual purpose: providing support for animals throughout the year and mitigating the risk of erosion. The practical application of ecological principles in planting showcases the students' commitment to fostering a balanced and sustainable ecosystem withing our urban environment.

Innovative Habitats and Structures:

To further enhance the newly established wetlands, students engaged in hands-on activities, including the construction of lizard pipes, habitat logs, and insect hotels. These structures, created during woodwork sessions, were strategically placed within the wetlands to serve as shelters and breeding grounds for various species. This aspect of the program not only promotes environmental sustainability but also showcases the integration of creative solutions in addressing ecological challenges.

Building Social and Teamwork Skills Outdoors:

Beyond academic enrichment students built social and teamwork skills. The active outdoor participation towards a common goal fostered collaboration and a sense of responsibility, creating a dynamic learning environment where students not only absorbed new information but actively contribute to the collective goal of environmental conservation. The learning journey within the program embodies a harmonious integration of theoretical learning and practical application, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious and scientifically literate individuals.