School excursion
Living world, wet and dry environments
Overview
Living world, wet and dry environments explores the natural features of mangrove ecosystems. On this Stage 1, Science and Technology excursion at Merimbula Lake boardwalk students learn how organisms support each other in this unique environment.
Read more about Living world, wet and dry environments
This Stage 1 excursion in Merimbula on the far South Coast gives students a first-hand experience exploring mangrove ecosystems.
Students will investigate and examine how and why animals and plants live and support each other throughout their life cycle in this unique mangrove environment. Through observations, discussions and hands-on activities, they'll learn about the habitat of living things, and how they change and reproduce at certain times of the year.
Learning activities include:
- Dip-netting to examine some of the organisms living in the wetlands
- Using binoculars to observe waterbird species
- Modelling sand habitats on the beach to develop an understanding of living things and their environment
- Observing animals and plant features
- Sensory experiences
The excursion has been designed to support the K-6 features of the Science and Technology Syllabus.
For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers
Stage | Stage 1 (Years 1-2) |
---|---|
Learning area | Science and Technology |
Student outcomes |
ST1-4LW-S. Describes observable features of living things and their environments ST1-2DP-T. Uses materials, tools and equipment to develop solutions for a need or opportunity ST1-1WS-S. Observes, questions and collects data to communicate and compare ideas and comparing what they and others know |
Objectives |
Students will:
|
Excursion details
- When
Monday to Friday during school term.
- Availability
- Guided. Available on request, subject to staff availability.
- Where
- Merimbula
- Duration
- 2hrs
- Grading
- Easy. Guided activities along a flat boardwalk, then down onto the sand exploring the high and low tide areas of Merimbula lake, and amongst the mangroves.
- Price
-
$360 per group of 25 students (includes GST).
- Accessibility
- No wheelchair access
- Meeting point
- Meet at the start of Merimbula Lake boardwalk, at the carpark near the bridge.
- Equipment
provided - Yes
- Booking
- If you would like to organise a NPWS school excursion, please get in touch with local staff or use the 'Enquire' link for the online form.
Local alerts
For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/education/stage-1-science-technology-living-world-wet-dry-merimbula/local-alerts
Operated by
- School excursion inquiries - Far South Coast
- 02 6495 5000
- npws.sapphirecoast@environment.nsw.gov.au
Info for teachers
All the practical information you need to know about Living world, wet and dry environments.
Program outline
- Acknowledgement of Country, introduce activities, safety discussion
- Boardwalk, woodland/mangrove interpretation
- Low tide activity - dip-netting
- Crab search
- Habitat modelling/animal life cycles
Getting there and parking
- Drive along Market Street from Merimbula to Pambula
- Turn right into the carpark just before bridge
Parking
Parking is available on both sides of Merimbula Bridge.
Maps and downloads
Risk assessment and risk benefits
Our rangers and guides have the technical skill and experience to assess the risks and the benefits of a variety of activities delivered as part of our learning programs.
We believe in including opportunities that allow students to learn and experience for themselves through exploration in the natural environment.
Please make your own risk assessment based on the information provided. Detailed potential risks and controls are provided for the site to assist teachers in risk management planning. Teachers and carers should be aware of, and consider the needs, abilities and medical conditions of students when visiting this site. The supervision of students remains the responsibility of the teacher. The school must ensure an adequate number of adult supervisors are present.
Accessibility
Disability access level - no wheelchair access
Although most of this excursion is not wheelchair-accessible, the section along Merimbula Lake boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible.
If there is a wheelchair user in your group, call 02 6495 5000 to find out how the excursion may be adapted for your group.