Reducing Resource Impact

Lesson Overview

This 80-minute lesson is designed for Year 9 Science students in New South Wales (NSW) to investigate ways we can reduce environmental impact during resource extraction. It aligns with NSW Science curriculum standards, integrating inquiry skills, scientific knowledge, sustainability concepts, and communication practices.

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Curriculum Links

• NSW Science Syllabus (Year 9)
• Focus area: Science understanding and science inquiry skills in relation to Earth and Environmental science.
• Achievement Standard: Students analyse interactions between human activity and environments, and evaluate strategies to reduce environmental impact in resource use and extraction. They plan and conduct investigations and communicate evidence-based findings effectively.

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Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:

• Explain environmental impacts of resource extraction on ecosystems.
• Investigate and describe strategies used to reduce these environmental impacts.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different environmental protection methods.
• Collaboratively plan, conduct, and analyse an investigation related to resource extraction and sustainability.
• Present findings using appropriate scientific communication for a peer audience.

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Lesson Duration

80 minutes

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Materials Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector or interactive display
• Printed case study handouts about resource extraction methods (mining, forestry, drilling)
• Access to tablets/computers or paper for research
• Worksheets for investigation planning and data recording
• Materials for simple modelling activity (e.g., soil samples, water trays, plastic trays, small scoops, water, and vegetative material)

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Lesson Details

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Begin with an open question: "What are some ways humans get resources from the Earth?" List responses.
• Briefly explain resource extraction methods (mining, drilling, forestry).
• Discuss common environmental impacts — habitat destruction, soil erosion, water pollution.
• Explain today’s focus: Investigating how to reduce these impacts.
• Establish lesson objectives clearly.

2. Case Study Exploration (15 minutes)

• Students break into small groups (4-5 students).
• Each group receives a different resource extraction case study handout describing:
• The resource and extraction method.
• Environmental impacts caused.
• Current mitigation strategies.
• Groups read, discuss, and list the main impacts and strategies given.
• Reconvene and share key points from each group with the class.

3. Hands-On Modelling Activity: Soil Erosion Control (20 minutes)

• Simulate a simple environment using trays filled with soil.
• Demonstrate the impact of resource extraction by disturbing soil (e.g., removing “vegetation”) and pouring water to mimic rain.
• Students experiment with methods to reduce erosion:
• Planting vegetation or mulch.
• Creating barriers like silt fences using available materials.
• Students record observations on the effectiveness of each method.
• Discuss how this models real-world environmental protection techniques in mining and forestry.

4. Research and Investigation Planning (20 minutes)

• Using tablets, computers, or books, groups research one additional environmental protection strategy related to resource extraction (e.g., rehabilitation of mined land, waste management, use of technology to reduce footprint).
• Students plan a brief investigation or presentation on how this strategy reduces impact.
• Worksheet prompts to include:
• Research questions
• Materials needed (hypothetical if needed)
• Expected outcomes and how it reduces environmental harm
• Groups begin preparing how to communicate their findings.

5. Group Presentations and Discussion (10 minutes)

• Each group shares their investigation plan or findings.
• Highlight innovative or lesser-known strategies.
• Teacher-led discussion on feasibility, challenges, benefits, and innovation in reducing environmental impacts of extraction.

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Assessment

Formative assessment will be through:

• Observation of group discussions and participation.
• Evaluation of case study notes and modelling activity worksheets.
• Assessment of research/investigation plans and group presentations focusing on:
• Clarity of explanation
• Scientific understanding of environmental impacts and protective strategies
• Use of appropriate scientific language

Encourage reflection on how different strategies can be integrated for sustainable resource use.

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Differentiation & Extension

• Provide additional scaffolding for students needing support, such as guided questions in case studies.
• Challenge advanced students to propose innovative sustainable technologies or policies to reduce extraction impacts.
• Extension task: Research indigenous land management practices that contribute to sustainable resource use.

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Teacher Notes

• Emphasise the importance of scientific inquiry and evidence when evaluating environmental strategies.
• Link concepts where possible to students' local environmental contexts in NSW.
• Encourage critical thinking about the complexity and trade-offs of resource extraction and environmental protection.

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This lesson balances knowledge acquisition, inquiry skills, hands-on exploration, and communication in an engaging way, fulfilling relevant NSW Science curriculum goals related to Earth and environmental science and sustainability in Year 9.