Our Year 5 excursion to the Botanic Gardens that took place on Friday, the 13th of September had begun with an exciting bus ride, filled with eager anticipation for the day ahead. Upon arrival, we briefly took a short break before splitting into our class groups for a lively debate on whether the Botanical Garden should implement back-burning practices. This engaging discussion set the stage for our learning journey and also encouraged critical thinking among the students and to acknowledge environmental issues. 

After lunch, we went to a lab to learn about various geographic and scientific instruments that are commonly used in both Geography and Science curriculums such as doing Kestrel readings to discover the temperature, wind speed, wind exposure, depth of leaf litter and how damp the surface of the ground is. The lesson also covered how these tools help geographers and scientists monitor ecological changes and preserve natural habitats. 

Additionally, we went on a fascinating walk through the depths of the plains, where we mapped the woodland of evident human impact such as soil erosion, introduced species, littering, and infrastructure. This was thrilling for many students as 5 Blue even saw two kangaroos! We then explored the gardens, noting the diverse species of flowers and the different textures of leaves, including their colours and patterns. We took time to examine how each plant species adapted to its environment.

During our walk through the Botanic Gardens, we captured the unique beauty of the exotic leaves and rare plant species by drawing their intricate patterns and distinctive forms. Our day concluded with a comparison of desert and tropical areas, which provided valuable insights into how flora and fauna thrive in varied conditions. After a fulfilling day of learning and exploration, we returned to school, enriched by our experiences. 

On behalf of Year 5,
Vivian E, Hailey P & Katherina D