Biophysical Interactions Field Study Excursion Sydney

Year 11 Geography
Biophysical Interactions

BUSHLAND
Location
Bantry Bay, Frenchs Forest
Manly Dam, Allambie Heights

Excursion Synopsis
Students examine human impacts on the environment at both a local and regional level. A variety of map work and photograph analysis is undertaken using topographic maps, satellite photos, aerial photos and stereoscopes.

The introduction and impacts of introduced species will be investigated along a transect line. Creek water quality will be evaluated by testing turbidity, water pH, water phosphate levels and catching water animals to use as indicator species.

Soil testing will be conducted using a centrifuge and linked to a discussion about erosion and land clearing. The impact of fire on the bush will also be investigated.

COASTS

Locations
Long Reef
Start: Long Reef, Collaroy
Finish: Collaroy Beach, Collaroy

Cronulla
Start: Wanda Beach, Cronulla
Finish: Eloura Beach, Cronulla

Excursion Synopsis
Students investigate aspects of the coastal biophysical environment and examine the ways in which humans impact on and are affected by natural coastal processes.

Investigations of a natural/re-established sand dune include wind measurements, sand dune sediment analysis and vegetation identification.

Students will use historical photos and aerial photos to investigate coastal processes, human impacts and the management strategies designed to deal with these issues.

WETLANDS

Location
Bonna Point, Botany Bay

Excursion Synopsis
Students investigate aspects of the wetland biophysical environment and examine the ways in which humans impact on and are affected by natural tidal processes.

Students discuss and measure the functioning of the biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere within the wetlands ecosystem. Field work includes studying interactions between lithosphere and biosphere by conducting a vegetation survey through different ecosystems, determining how the biosphere has adapted to hydrospheric processes by studying a mangrove tree in detail.

Land use in the area will be investigated with particular emphasis on the related impacts on the spheres, management strategies and future proposals.

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