The future of Kiama’s rocky intertidal ecosystem
Year 11 Investigating science, depth study
Kiama Black Beach rock platform
Module Inquiry Question: What inferences can be drawn from observations?
Depth Study Inquiry Question: How will ocean temperature, water level and acidity rises change the rocky intertidal ecosystem?
After researching rock platform organisms in relation to their adaptations and interspecies interactions, students conduct a rock platform investigation in which they use observations and inferences to develop an hypothesis and carry out a field test.
After processing and analysing both primary and secondary data and information, students design an ongoing rock platform investigation that addresses an aspect of the depth study inquiry question - How will ocean temperature, water level and acidity rises change the rocky intertidal ecosystem?
Groups then present their investigation methodology to the class (suggested depth study assessment).
Qualitative assessment of distribution and abundance on the rock platform (by zones)
Before conducting the observational field survey students familiarise yourself with the zonation pattern on the rock platform, identifying zones and microhabitats and making inferences to decide the indicator species for each zone.
Students use their knowledge of the five main observable interactions seen on the rocky shore (predation, parasitism, competition, mutualism and commensalism) to find examples and describe the species involved.
Students are instructed on appropriate field techniques such as quadrats and transects in relation to their relevance in collecting data.
In groups, use inferences from qualitative observations to develop an hypothesis. Discuss use of variables and verify methodology.
In groups, students conduct an investigation based on their developed hypothesis using available equipment and methodology. Students are guided through a discussion on thier thier results and how an organism’s niche is determined by adaptations and species interactions.
Students in groups design an investigation that aims to help with mitigating the impacts of climate change in the future. Ie develop aims and methodology for a further inquiry. This design forms the basis of the suggested depth study assessment.
· Student Fieldwork sheets (IEEC will provide on the day)
· Teachers Guide to student depth study booklet
· Outline of Depth Study hours
· Sampling techniques powerpoint
A student:
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Shell Cove NSW 2529
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We would like to pay our respects and acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and also pay respect to Elders both past and present.
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