Science

Farmwall Incursion

The Farmwall incursion was very fun. They asked us to bring our own strawberry containers from home for the lesson. It started out with the class learning a lot about how different types of ecosystems work and circular principles in an environment. We also spent the other half of the lesson making our own sprouts, where we planted seeds using the strawberry container we were asked to bring, and we watered them with a spray bottle. We were asked to bring the containers so that they could demonstrate ideas to recycle different materials around the house.

After a couple of weeks, once they had fully grown into healthy sprouts, we’d cut them off and eat them. The great thing is that sprouts have an abundance of nutrients, making them really healthy to eat. At the end of the incursion, each of us were given seeds that we could plant in the garden to grow a lovely flower.

We all had fun learning about Farmwall and what they do, and we all gained a lot from the experience.

By Leonidas Carpenter

Students plunge into Ruffey Creek to Uncover Ecosystem Secrets

As part of their Pre-Biology studies, students have actively engaged in hands-on scientific learning through a field excursion to Ruffey Creek, a local riparian ecosystem. Clara Heiligenberg and Asha Asha are the coordinating teachers for the excursion, with each of their Pre Bio classes participating in the excursion during one of their recent lessons.

This experience is designed to help students apply their understanding of ecosystem health and scientific research methods in a real-world setting.

"Students observed the creek and took notes on the species and health of any plants surrounding it. They also collected water samples, which will be analyzed for water quality and macroinvertebrate (aquatic insects, worms, snails, etc.) populations in the following lessons", says Clara.

"This task is a great introduction to how fieldwork is completed by career biologists, but I also hope that students will develop a more general awareness of what to look out for in the environments they see and identify any problems that they could help solve!"

During their first Biology lesson of the week, students ventured down to Ruffey Creek to assess the health of the freshwater ecosystem. They focused on observing plant species and examining key indicators of ecosystem health at two designated sites. The class took 6 water samples, three from each site, to examine in the next few classes. Students worked collaboratively with each other in small groups to complete a field booklet, which will serve as a key assessment component, requiring students to reflect on their fieldwork, interpret their findings, and evaluate the health of Ruffey Creek. Some of the things the students had to note were plant species and invasive plants on the Verge, Bank or in the river itself. By participating in this experience, students have developed practical skills in the scientific field that they will be able to use further in their studies.

Lesson 2 of the week brought students together in the classroom to identify native insect species in the samples collected from Ruffey Creek. Using Pitri dishes and pipettes to examine small sections of the water and examine insect species, "Students worked together to decide which details of the environment were important to consider when assessing the health of an ecosystem," says Clara.

"In the following week, students will write a short report detailing their own assessment of the health (or lack thereof) of the creek and if any steps need to be taken to improve its health."

As students continue their Pre-Biology studies, this hands-on experience has provided them with valuable insight into real-world scientific research. By engaging in fieldwork and analysis, they have gained a deeper understanding of ecosystem health and the importance of environmental awareness. The findings from their reports will contribute to their learning task 2 in the following weeks, ensuring that the education of TC students goes on learning and growing alongside Ruffey Creek's thriving ecosystem for years to come. Thanks for tuning in ☺️

By Ruby Egan Douglas and Mietta Palmer

Zoology & Ecology Students Dive into Discovery

On Monday, 24th March 2025, our Zoology and Ecology students took part in an enriching excursion to the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre in Queenscliff. Surrounded by one of Victoria’s most beautiful marine environments, students engaged in hands-on learning that brought textbook science to life.

The day offered two immersive experiences: a Marine Biology Boat Cruise and a Guided Beach Snorkel, both designed to deepen students’ understanding of marine ecosystems through real-world observation.

Students on the Marine Biology Cruise joined a coastal ranger for a guided exploration of the marine national park. A key highlight was the drag net dissection, which allowed students to examine a range of marine organisms up close. The unexpected appearance of seals basking nearby added a memorable touch to the experience.

Meanwhile, the snorkelling group had the chance to explore the vibrant underwater world, led by expert marine educators. Among the highlights were sightings of colourful fish and a stingray, offering students a unique window into coastal marine life.

The visit concluded with time at the Centre’s aquarium and marine museum, where students explored a diverse range of exhibits, including baleen plates from blue whales—a moment that sparked plenty of curiosity and thoughtful discussion.

This excursion provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect with their learning in a meaningful way, while gaining a deeper appreciation for marine biodiversity and ecological systems.