All our programs are either tailored to support relevant units within the Australian curriculum, or as specifically requested by our clients.
Our “Eucalypt Forest” programs for years 3-6 have been specifically developed for this age group, and for a variety of learning abilities. Through participation in this program, students gain a basic understanding and awareness of the importance of eucalypt forest ecosystems through direct interaction with the natural environment (excursions) or through an interactive PPP with a variety of forest items to pass around/try (incursions). This experience can be delivered to complement the following units or modules:
Geography
Science
Cultural
Three quarters of native Australian forests are made up of Eucalyptus trees, which means there is likely to be a eucalyptus forest near you. Primary teachers choosing to undertake one of our field-based “Eucalypt Forest” excursions have the option of an ‘Experiential’ field trip (usually Grades K/P-4) or a ‘Work-booklet’ based field trip (usually grades 5-6/7). Experiential field trips are less structured than work-booklet-based field trips and allow flexibility to follow the specific interests of a group. Work-booklet-based field trips allow for a methodical and structured investigation of eucalypt forest environments. Virtual eucalypt forest investigations allow students who are unable to participate in a field trip (e.g. due to finances, proximity to habitat, behaviour issues, etc.) to gain a basic understanding of eucalypt forest environments through a well-designed in-class presentation.
Excursions
Incursions
Below is an example itinerary for a 1-day “Eucalypt Forest” excursion. All excursions packages include the necessary work booklets and equipment.
09:00 | Tour group pick- Second Nature have a fleet of vehicles available to cater for any number of passengers (within reason). We can provide transport to and from schools and airports |
09:45 | Arrive at destination for Activity session 1 Eucalypt forests thrive in the dry, fire-prone conditions of a windward mountain face. As such, your eucalypt forests often coexist with a landform rich in geological history. During this activity, you will examine the rock layers visible at an exposed cliff face. The guides will explain how these rocks provide a history of the local area and its past environmental conditions. |
10:45 | Morning tea |
11:00 | Activity Session 2 Students will use classification guides provided to identify trees and animals of the forest. They will explore the forest for other evidence of wildlife, including nocturnal animals. The guides will explain how all of these organisms interact in a web of feeding relationships. |
12:00 | Lunch at destination Great areas to take a break and enjoy the scenery |
13:00 | Activity Session 3 Line transects and quadrat surveys are frequently utilised by field scientists to monitor how an area changes over time. During this activity, students will be divided into groups to assess an area using techniques explained by our guides. The activity will involve taking measurements of physical factors using supplied equipment and recording results in a data collection table. This is excellent hands on experience in the field! |
14:00 | Visit Lookout Walk along a bush track to reach a lookout that stretches over an underlying valley. There will be a great photo opportunity at the top! |
14:30 | Depart destination, back to school or airport |
15:00 | Arrive back at school or airport when required |