Embedded Files
Working scientifically
Working scientifically
The Field of Mars EEC fieldwork is much more than just 'measuring the environment' and 'facts about rocks and ecosystems'.
The fieldwork, and these resources, are organised around the working scientifically skills outcomes of the Human Impacts module in the EES syllabus.
It is recommended for students to keep track of where they are in their fieldwork and investigations using the steps and language of the working scientifically skills outcomes diagram.
Working scientifically diagram NESA | © 2019 NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales
Inquiry questions
Inquiry questions
The Field of Mars EEC excursion fieldwork is designed to answer four inquiry questions.
Teachers and students may choose to formulate their own inquiry questions for a related depth study.
Fieldwork inquiry questions
What are the effects of introduced species on the environment in the Field of Mars Reserve?
How have human activities allowed the spread of these introduced species?
How can the effects of introduced species be controlled and mitigated in the future?
What methodologies and data sources are required for a valid and reliable survey of the introduced species at the Field of Mars Reserve?
Worksheet
Worksheet
School copy - Human impacts and introduced species - Field of Mars EEC - PDF.pdfRisk management
Risk management
Fieldwork planning information
Fieldwork planning information
Video 1 – Introduction to Field of Mars EEC and the video series (0:54min)
Video 2 – Outline of the location and features of the study site (2:05min)
Video 3 – Outlines some human activities and their impacts(1:56min)
Video 4 – Outlines the field investigation skills that will be used (2:00min)
Fieldwork instrument use
Fieldwork instrument use
Video 5 – Outline of the biotic and abiotic factors at the study site (2:45min)
Abiotic factors:
Light intensity, Air temperature, Aspect, Slope, Wind speed, Relative humidity, Soil temperature, Soil pH, Soil moisture, Soil texture and Parent material
Biotic factors:
Interactions and Trophic levels
Video – Fieldwork instruments – part 1 (2:44min)
Measuring air temperature using the thermometer function of the Kestrel 3000 weather meter
Measuring relative humidity using the hygrometer function of the Kestrel 3000 weather meter
Measuring wind speed using the anemometer function of the Kestrel 3000 weather meter
Measuring light intensity using a light meter.
Notes about reliability, potential error and biases.
Video – Fieldwork instruments – part 2 (2:49min)
Definition of soil
Determining soil texture using a manual classification method
Measuring soil pH using the 'saturated paste' method
Measuring soil temperature using a soil temperature probe
Handling and disposal of chemical waste
Notes about reliability, potential error and biases.
Video – Fieldwork instruments – part 3 (2:37min)
Determining slope (gradient) using an inclinometer
Determining position (gradient) using a GPS or a smartphone app
Determining aspect using a compass
Strategies for ensuring reliable results
Notes about potential error and biases.
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