VCE Biology Unit 2
Collect authentic data to explore how scientists are helping the conservation of a threatened species. Use qualitative observations to determine how a species’ adaptations enable it to survive within its ecosystem.
Program description
In this program, students will use real-life data collection techniques to conduct scientific investigations and explore how ecologists are working towards the conservation of a threatened species.
They will observe first-hand examples and collect qualitative data to learn how different types of adaptations enable animals to thrive in their ecosystem niche.
Students will explore ecosystem interactions and determine how these can impact on biodiversity, considering contemporary bioethical issues. They will build their knowledge about species adaptations, ecological relationships, and human impacts.
Students will learn:
- How structural, behavioural and physiological adaptations enhance species survival
- About the interdependencies of species within an ecosystem
- The science and bioethics involved in real wildlife conservation projects
- How to conduct a practical investigation, including obtaining and analysing data
Program sequence
Connect
Use the activities in the Teaching Guide (below) to spark students’ curiosity before their zoo visit.
Connect and Understand
Students will collect real-world data to explore how scientists are helping the conservation of a threatened species. They will conduct qualitative observations to determine how a species’ adaptations enable it to survive within its ecosystem.
Your zoo visit includes: An introduction to the day, Zoo Teacher workshop (80 minutes) and keeper talks. Check out your Teaching Guide for other ideas of what to do at the zoo.
Understand
Use activities in the Teaching Guide to deepen students’ learning back at school.
Act
Use the Teaching Guide to enable students to master their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts.
Program maps and itineraries
Your booking confirmation email will list your group's education workshop time/s. Digital maps will be provided to you on the day.
Program resources
Students will need copies of the workbook to fill out during their excursion. Please ensure you print these and bring with you as we are unable to provide copies on the day.
Learning outcomes
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)
Area of Study 2
Key knowledge:
Reproductive strategies
- Biological advantages and disadvantages of asexual reproduction
- Biological advantages of sexual reproduction in terms of genetic diversity of offspring
Adaptations and diversity
- The biological importance of genetic diversity within a species or population
- Structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations that enhance an organism’s survival and enable life to exist in a wide range of environments
- Survival through interdependencies between species, including impact of changes, ecological roles in structuring and maintaining the distribution, density and size of a population in an ecosystem
- The contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ knowledge and perspectives in understanding adaptations of, and interdependencies between, species in Australian ecosystems.
Plan your excursion
VCE Biology Unit 2 program is an outdoor all-weather program; the students will need appropriate clothing for weather conditions. This could include a raincoat, hat and sun protection
School groups will enter Kyabram Fauna Park via the Education Entrance Gate. Organising teachers, please check in with our Visitor Experience team upon arrival.
Book your education experience
Fill out an online form to request a booking for your zoo education experience
Request booking nowYou will need to know the following to book your zoo excursion or online workshop:
- Education program of your choice (if applicable)
- Preferred date
- School name and address
- Contact details of organising teacher
- Number of students/classes and their year level