Vegetation zonation

Introduction

The Red Tarns Track is an ideal location to study changes to vegetation in composition, growth form and height over increasing altitude.

Students see how the zonation pattern gives a basis for defining (by species and broad zones) the major vegetation types of the region.

There are opportunities to find a correlation between precipitation and temperature with altitude. Methodology can include recordings at various altitudes, sketching and photography.

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, 3.1

Education for Sustainability

A.S. 2.2, 3.2

Geography

Understand spatial variation

Understand how processes change over time

Understand how people interact with the environment

A.S. 1.4, 1.5, 1.8, 2.1, 2.4, 2.5, 2.8, 3.4, 3.5

Science

Living World

Ecology - Investigate the relationship between organisms and their environment

Explain and investigate patterns

A.S. 1.10,

Planet Earth and Beyond

Earth Systems – processes that shape surface features

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

      Learning objectives

      Students will:

      • observe, sketch or  take samples to study changes in vegetation with altitude
      • measure temperature, humidity and wind speed over altitude
      • identify key species at different altitudes
      • identify key conditions at different altitudes
      • identify plant species zonation and develop hypotheses based on climate.

        Key competencies

        Thinking, managing self and contributing

        Details

        Location: Public shelter, Bowen Drive, Aoraki/Mount Cook Village
        Duration: 2 hours
        Hazard level: Moderate (outside climatic conditions, steep terrain and gravel)
        Cost: LEOTC fee (presentation only)
        Equipment to bring: Pencils, measuring tape, sturdy footwear and warm clothing, camera, assessment and clipboard