Ecosystems of the Soil

The microbiome of the soil is an important factor for the growth of plants. This is why compost and FOGO are playing an important role in maintaining ecosystems which are being affected by changes in climatic conditions. Food and garden waste are important resources that can maintain moisture levels, nutrient cycling and reduce emissions.

This session presents a number of field work opportunities to investigate the soil biome.

Students will:

• Use a range of scientific equipment to measure soil pH, temperature, infiltration rate, moisture content and runoff water quality both in and outside of the Tiny Forest
• Compare the data collected in the Tiny Forest and outside the Tiny Forest
• Complete a transect both inside and outside the Tiny Forest identifying invertebrate and compare
• Sample microorganisms in the form of fungi and bacteria specific to the site
• Hypothesize, connecting the macro and micro using the soil data collected
• Measure growth rates for the last three years on trees inside and outside the Tiny Forest and compare
• Pose questions upon their findings
• Inspect our onsite compost system and compare to FOGO

Curriculum links

Stage 4 Curriculum

SC4-LIV-01 describes the role, structure and function of a range of living systems and their components

SC4-WS-02 identifies questions and makes predictions to guide scientific investigations

SC4-WS-05 uses a variety of ways to process and represent data

Stage 5 Curriculum

SC5-ENV-01 analyses the impact of human activity on the natural world

SC5-WS-06 analyses data from investigations to identify trends, patterns and relationships, and draws conclusions

SC5-WS-07 selects suitable problem-solving strategies and evaluates proposed solutions to identified problems

Please read our Excursion Information page to learn about bookings, payments, cancellations and what to expect on the day.

You can also use the enquiry button below to request this excursion.