Humanities

From Rainforests to Coastlines to Bushfire Zones: Geography Students Investigate Victoria’s Diverse Landscapes

Year 8 Geography

In Week 5, Year 8 Geography students travelled to the Dandenong Ranges for an engaging fieldwork experience at Grant’s Picnic Ground in Kallista, within the Dandenong Ranges National Park.Working alongside Parks Victoria education staff, students explored the unique environment of a cool temperate rainforest. In small groups, they walked local trails, collecting data and recording observations to support their learning.

Throughout the day, students developed their understanding of park management and examined how Aboriginal peoples traditionally used the forest. They also investigated the impacts of European settlement, including the history of logging in the region. In addition, students identified key characteristics of the rainforest ecosystem and considered the variety of plant and animal life that inhabit this environment.

The excursion provided an excellent opportunity for students to apply their classroom learning in a real-world context. All students approached the day with enthusiasm and curiosity, and it was pleasing to see them actively engaged throughout.

Year 10 Geography

Last week Year 10 Geography students headed to Portsea and Sorrento to investigate coastal environments and processes.

As part of their studies, students have been examining erosion, deposition and longshore drift. During the excursion, they applied this knowledge by observing the coastline and analysing how these processes shape different landforms. Students worked collaboratively to film sections of the coast, using their footage to explain features such as beaches, cliffs and dunes, as well as the impacts of human activity.

The excursion also provided an opportunity to explore coastal management strategies in action, with students considering how local authorities respond to environmental challenges along the coastline.

With clear skies and warm conditions, the day provided ideal weather for fieldwork. Students engaged positively with the activities and demonstrated a strong understanding of the concepts studied in class.

Year 11 Geography

As part of their Unit 1 studies, Year 11 Geography students undertook a fieldwork excursion in Week 8 to the Dandenong Ranges in partnership with Parks Victoria, focusing on bushfire risk.

In class, students have been studying bushfires and developing hypotheses about which areas of the Dandenong Ranges are most at risk. During the excursion, they collected primary data on vegetation and topography across a range of sites. This information was then used to calculate bushfire risk scores and fire hazard ratings for each location.

Although the excursion was initially scheduled earlier in the term and postponed due to weather conditions, students adapted well to the revised date. Despite slightly gloomy conditions, the group remained engaged and enthusiastic throughout the day.

This fieldwork experience will form the basis of a detailed report next term, where students will evaluate their findings and compare their data to their initial hypotheses.