Year 7 Science Excursion to Melbourne Zoo

On Friday 23 August Year 7 students went on an excursion to the Melbourne Zoo. During this trip, they participated in the Animal Classification and Adaptations program, which aims to teach valuable observation and classification skills. 

The program provided a holistic approach to understanding animal adaptations, their environments, and specific threats. Students were challenged to classify animals and appreciate their food chains and feeding patterns, which are crucial for species survival.

Overall, the students were excited and fascinated by the interesting facts and figures they learned during this captivating field trip. They gained a deeper understanding of the diverse animal kingdom. The excursion fostered a sense of wonder and inquiry, encouraging students to explore scientific topics beyond the classroom and inspiring a lifelong interest in science. Below is a reflection by Leah Chen (7.4)

Vinita Seago

Year 7 Coordinator

We recently visited the Melbourne Zoo in a science excursion. Spilt into groups, we wandered through the zoo, gazing through the glass at the various animals behind, snapping photos as we contemplated their various features and characteristics. Armed with clipboards, our booklets and a pen, we noted down anything unique that could distinguish them from other animals as we strived to classify several animals of choice. These included a marsupial, a reptile, a mammal, an endangered animal, and one of our own choice. Additionally, we had to determine the structural and behavioural adaptations of several animals, and how they have supported their survival in the wild. 

 

Through this excursion, we gathered information and learnt in a different environment outside of the classroom. For example, a unique experience was when we went into the lemur enclosure where we were able to examine and study the lemurs in their habitat without the barrier of the glass. We were then prompted to ponder about the fragility of ecosystems and food chains, and how the smallest thing could have a large impact.

 

At school, we had been learning about Classifications and Ecosystems, and this excursion put our newly learnt skills into use. Our classification skills were challenged, as we classified the animals while observing them and their behaviour with a limited amount of time. This was due to the fact that we had to follow a tight schedule to get around to all the separate enclosures and sections of the zoo. We were also provided many learning opportunities as we participated in several insightful keeper talks, learning more about certain species. 

 

Furthermore, we took part in an educational workshop, where a zookeeper taught us about adaptations. We were handed some skulls of different animals that passed away in the zoo and were tasked to identify adaptations of our animal. We also had to understand how they helped the animal live in their environment, and then combine everything and classify the animal. This was very valuable and assisted us in finishing our schoolwork of classifying our animals and recognising their adaptations.

 

Overall, this excursion was very enjoyable, and a memorable experience, as well as being extremely informative and beneficial towards our learning. Thank you to all the Melbourne Zoo staff who were very helpful and passionate, ready to answer any questions they we had. Additionally, we are all exceedingly thankful towards our science teachers, as well as all the other teachers who accompanied us on this excursion. We are deeply grateful for all your assistance and support throughout the day as well as previously.