Natural systems
Processes, cycles and circulations
This section introduces the interactions between atmospheric, hydrological, geomorphic and ecological components within the eucalypt forests at the Field of Mars Reserve. It aligns to the following syllabus content:
the natural processes, cycles and circulations that have shaped the land and/or water cover of ONE place
Time allocation - approx. 90 minutes
Learning intentions
We are learning:
the processes, cycles and circulations of earth's natural systems operating in eucalypt forests.
Success criteria
I can:
construct a cross section to represent landforms
explain the interconnection between geomorphic and hydrological systems that have shaped the land at the Field of Mars Reserve
use climate data to explain the interconnections between global atmospheric systems and forests.
Location and spatial characteristics
Location
Field of Mars Reserve is a 54 hectare bushland reserve located in East Ryde. It is situated 5 km north-west of the city of Sydney, Australia.
The GPS coordinates place it at a latitude of -33° 48' 31.06" S and a longitude of 151° 07' 27.02" E.
The Field of Mars Reserve has a triangular shape which consists of two valleys and a broad central ridge. The Field of Mars Cemetery lies at the top of the ridge but is not managed as part of the reserve. The two valleys were formed by the action of the two creeks that flow from the top of the ridges on their way to the Lane Cove River. Buffalo Creek lies in the southern portion of the reserve and Strangers Creek is situated to the north.
Geomorphic and hydrological systems
Activity 1
Review how to construct a cross section using the NSW Department of Education resources page Cross-sections and transects
Construct a cross section Point A to Point B.
Describe the landforms of the Field of Mars Reserve.
Explain the hydrological and geomorphic processes that have shaped the landforms at the Field of Mars Reserve.
Soil formation
Soils are the foundation of an ecosystem. They play a vital role in nutrient cycling supporting primary production, provide habitat for macro and microorganisms and regulate and store groundwater.
During fieldwork students will investigate soil properties within the eucalypt forest and draw conclusion on how soil interacts with other systems to shape the environment.
Resources supporting soil analysis can be found in the Resources section of this website.
Atmospheric and hydrological systems
Climate
The latitude ( -33° 48' 31.06") places Field of Mars Reserve in a warm temperate climate with clearly defined seasons and year round rainfall. Traditionally, Sydney experiences wetter months in summer and autumn with spring being the driest.
Climate information sources
Climate statistics for Australian locations – Sydney, Bureau of Meteorology
Climate history East Ryde, Australian Meteorology
Climate outlook information, Bureau of Meteorology.
Latest weather observations for Sydney - Observatory Hill, Bureau of Meteorology.
Activity 2
Access climate data and statistics from the Bureau of Meteorology and describe how global air and water circulations influence the climate of Sydney.