Moraine/scree transects

Introduction

Students study authentic ecological succession, from bare rock surfaces through to climax vegetation.

They study secondary succession in relation to burning and the establishment of exotic grasslands and gap regeneration in relation to beech (spp. Nothofagus) forest.

Groups can arrange to take samples of the soil horizon and are encouraged to hypothesise about the development and role of key chemical elements, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, nitrogen­ fixing plants and non-leguminous nitrogen fixers.

Level

Year groups: 11-13
Curriculum levels: 6-8

Learning areas

Learning Area*

Discipline

Strand/AO

Biology

A.S. 1.1, 2.1, 2.3, 2.6

Education  for Sustainability

A.S. 2.2 , 3.2,

Geography

Skills and research into environmental processes

A.S. 1.4, 1.5, 2.4, 2.5, 3.4, 3.5

Science

Nature of Science

Investigation in science (multiple AO)

Living World

Ecology evolution (multiple AO)

A.S. 1.10, 1.2

*If you have another learning area you wish to explore, we can adapt. 

      Learning objectives

      Students will:

      • recognise the biological significance of Aoraki/Mount Cook moraines
      • conduct sampling (vegetation, soil horizon) to identify primary and secondary succession
      • interpret the role of key plants and elements (phosphorous and nitrogen) in succession.

      Key competencies

      Thinking, managing self and contributing

      Details

      Location: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre
      Duration: Various depending on key focus
      Hazard level: Moderate (outside climatic conditions and terrain)
      Cost: LEOTC fee (presentation only)