Mining Our Earth: Extraction Impacts

Year 7 Science Investigating environmental effects of resource extraction Duration: 60 minutes

WALT (We Are Learning To)

Investigate and understand the environmental impact of resource extraction Conduct a scientific investigation simulating resource extraction Analyse and compare different methods of resource extraction Communicate findings using scientific language and visual data

Success Criteria - What You'll Achieve

Explain how resource extraction affects the environment Follow scientific investigation steps safely and accurately Measure and record observations of landscape changes Describe differences between extraction methods and their impacts Use scientific language to explain findings Suggest ways to minimise environmental damage

Resource Extraction & Environmental Impact

Investigation Setup - Materials & Method

Large tray filled with sand (Earth's surface model) Small pebbles or beads (valuable minerals/resources) Plastic spoons, scoops, and sieves for extraction Rulers for measuring depth Water spray bottles for rainfall simulation Timer and data recording sheets

Investigation Method - Two Approaches

RAPID EXTRACTION: Use spoon to extract pebbles quickly for 30 seconds Record: number of pebbles, hole depth, landscape disturbance Spray water to simulate rainfall - observe erosion effects CONTROLLED EXTRACTION: Use sieve for careful, minimal disturbance Compare results between both methods Work in pairs, complete 3 trials for accuracy

Conducting Your Investigation

Form pairs or groups of 3 students Start with rapid extraction method - 3 trials Measure and record all observations accurately Spray water and note erosion patterns Reset tray and try controlled extraction method Use timer for consistency and rulers for precise measurements

Data Analysis & Discussion

{"left":"What differences exist between rapid and controlled extraction?\nHow does landscape disturbance vary between methods?\nHow does water affect disturbed vs undisturbed areas?","right":"What are the environmental implications?\nKey terms: erosion, sustainability, landscape disturbance\nReal-world connections to Australian mining practices"}

Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainable Land Use

First Nations Australians: 65,000+ years of sustainable land management Traditional ecological knowledge guides responsible resource use Caring for Country: holistic approach to environmental stewardship Modern mining can learn from Indigenous land care practices Rehabilitation and restoration of disturbed landscapes Balancing resource needs with environmental protection

Reflection & Future Actions

Based on your investigation, how can mining practices be improved? What sustainable extraction methods did you discover? How might we balance our need for resources with environmental protection? What role can technology play in reducing mining impacts?