Year 7 Gleeson Wetlands Excursion – Term 1, Week 4

Year 7s Explore Local Ecosystems at Gleeson Wetlands

On a beautiful February day, our Year 7 students spent an exciting half-day excursion at the local Gleeson Wetlands as part of their ongoing investigation into Ecosystems — with a special focus on those local to us.

As budding environmental scientists, students were challenged to collect abiotic (non-living) samples from the wetlands using tools they designed and constructed themselves from recycled materials. Each design was unique and purpose-built, and all proved effective, allowing students to safely and sustainably gather their samples. These were then brought back to school for analysis, where students investigated microscopic life and other indicators that would determine the health of the ecosystem.

Following the sampling activity, students took part in a wetlands-themed scavenger hunt. This engaging activity encouraged them to explore and identify both biotic (living) and abiotic components of the ecosystem, along with investigating the various community links and contributions of the Gleeson Wetlands.

A special thank you goes to Lingjing Kong, Ashleigh Hill, Tash Quinton, Kezia Quast, Josh Lines, Dan Bradley, and Tenille Mannion for their generous support of this excursion. Congratulations also to all of our Year 7 students for their enthusiasm and thoughtful application to the tasks.

Looking ahead, a smaller group of students will continue their environmental observations as part of the Waterwatch program, facilitated by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board.

Back at school, students tested their water samples for pH and used microscopes to investigate for microscopic life. The results showed a largely healthy waterway, with some fascinating images captured — a couple of which are shared below.

Next, students will take their learning further by designing their own biomes and delving into how and why we classify organisms in the living world.

Ryan O’Neill
STEM Teacher, Clare High School