Detailed Lesson Plan: Investigating the Biophysical Aspects of Kauri Glen Bush Using GeoNet

Subject: Science

Year Level: Year 12

Duration: 120 minutes

Class Size: 30 students

Overview

In this lesson, Year 12 students will use the GeoNet website to research and explore the biophysical aspects of Kauri Glen Bush. The lesson will focus on using real-time data and resources to understand environmental monitoring and geoecological characteristics specific to New Zealand, which aligns with the aims of the New Zealand Curriculum for Science at Level 8.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Identify and describe the biophysical aspects of Kauri Glen Bush.
2. Utilize the GeoNet website effectively to gather and interpret ecological and geoscientific data.
3. Discuss the importance of environmental monitoring and preservation, specific to New Zealand’s unique ecosystems.
4. Develop skills in data interpretation and presentation.

Curriculum Links

This lesson plan relates to the New Zealand Curriculum for Science, specifically:

• Nature of Science (Level 8): Understand how scientists approach and solve problems, and how science findings can be communicated to the public.
• Living World (Level 8): Explore and understand New Zealand’s native ecosystems and biodiversity.

Resources

• Computers/Tablets with internet access
• Projector and screen for presentation
• GeoNet website access: GeoNet
• Notebooks/pens for students
• Worksheets with guided questions and data collection tables

Lesson Plan

Introduction (15 minutes)

1. Welcome and Learning Outcomes: Brief the students on the objectives and outcomes of today’s lesson.
2. Introduction to GeoNet: Provide an overview of the GeoNet project, emphasizing its role in environmental monitoring and data provision in New Zealand.
   • Discuss how GeoNet contributes to understanding New Zealand’s natural hazards and environments.

Activity Part 1: Exploration of GeoNet (30 minutes)

1. Demonstration: Show students how to navigate the GeoNet website and where to find information relevant to ecological and geological data.
2. Group Formation: Split the class into groups of five and assign each group a specific aspect of Kauri Glen Bush to research (e.g., soil composition, flora and fauna, geophysical data).
3. Research: Students start exploring their assigned topics using GeoNet and jot down useful information and data on their worksheets.

Activity Part 2: Data Analysis (30 minutes)

1. Data Compilation: Each group compiles the collected data and makes sense of it, preparing a short presentation.
2. Critical Thinking Discussion: Encourage students to discuss their findings in context with environmental issues such as conservation, impact of human activities, and climate change effects on Kauri Glen Bush.

Presentation and Peer Review (30 minutes)

1. Group Presentations: Each group presents their findings to the class using the projector and screen.
2. Feedback Session: After each presentation, allow a quick peer review session where students can ask questions and offer constructive feedback.

Wrap-Up (15 minutes)

1. Reflection: Have students individually write a brief reflection on what they learned about Kauri Glen Bush and the GeoNet tool.
2. Class Discussion: Discuss how this lesson might impact their view on conservation efforts and science’s role in society.
3. Homework: Assign students to write a detailed report on their group’s findings, incorporating feedback from today’s session.

Assessment

• Presentation: Evaluate group presentations on clarity, data interpretation, and connection to the curriculum’s biophysical focus.
• Worksheets and Reflections: Review these for depth of understanding and personal engagement with the material.

By integrating real-life data from GeoNet into this lesson plan, students gain hands-on experience in environmental monitoring, enhancing their understanding and commitment to preserving New Zealand's unique ecosystems.