Exploring Our Local Biodiversity
Year 9 Science - Environmental Detectives Unit Lesson 2: Local Biodiversity Overview 45 minutes
Learning Objectives
Investigate and identify local flora and fauna Understand relationships within our local ecosystem Create identification guides using scientific classification Develop observation and data collection skills Support inclusive learning for all students
What is Local Biodiversity?
Video Exploration Activity
Watch: 'Australian Urban Wildlife' video (5 minutes) Observation task: List 5 species you recognize Note: Where might you find these locally? Use the provided observation sheet with large, clear fonts
Discussion Prompts
What species did you notice in the video? How do these animals and plants interact? Where have you seen similar species in your area? What surprised you about our local biodiversity?
Hands-On Activity: Create an Identification Guide
Work in groups of 3-4 students Choose one local species to focus on Use color-coded templates (mammals=blue, plants=green, birds=yellow) Include clear photos, simple descriptions, and habitat information Use dyslexia-friendly fonts: Arial or Comic Sans, size 14+
Identification Guide Features
{"left":"Clear, large photos of the species\nSimple, factual descriptions\nHabitat information (where to find them)\nSize comparison (use familiar objects)","right":"Color-coded by animal/plant type\nEasy-to-read fonts and layouts\nFun facts to engage readers\nSafety notes if needed"}
Gallery Walk & Peer Feedback
Display your identification guides around the room Walk quietly and observe other groups' work Leave positive feedback on orange sticky notes Ask questions on blue sticky notes Focus on what you learned and what impressed you
Reflection Time
"The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction." - Rachel Carson
What We've Discovered Today
Our local area has amazing biodiversity Every species has an important role in the ecosystem Careful observation helps us understand nature better We can all be environmental detectives Next lesson: We'll investigate ecosystem relationships