Welcome
Welcome to our growing collection of resources tailored to foster Ocean Literacy and nurture a deeper connection with Australia's unique kelp forest ecosystems.
If you are not already, join our Teachers of the Great Southern Reef Facebeook group to interact with our community.
Food Webs
In this lesson series, students delve into the intricate dynamics of Australia’s kelp forest ecosystem, learning about trophic levels, the pivotal role of primary producers, and the complex interrelationships depicted through food chains and webs. Students collect information about marine species and represent their feeding relationships in a food web, using arrows to indicate the transfer of energy.
Download the teacher guide, student instructions and worksheet.
Endangered & Invasive Species
In this lesson series students learn about critically endangered species in Australia guided by the classifications outlined in the IUCN Red List threat categories. Taking the emblematic handfish as a focal point and featuring two exclusive short videos, the series illuminates the various factors that can precipitate a species becoming endangered. Students will also investigate characteristics of invasive species and engage in practical exercises to hone their skills in conveying scientific information and conservation messages effectively.
Download the teacher guide and student led worksheets.
High School Unit
Tightly aligned with cross-curriculum priorities of Sustainability and Aboriginal History & Culture and the year 9 Australian Science Curriculum, this full unit package includes teacher instructions, video links, presentation slides, quizzes, pedagogy tips, action tasks, inquiry questions and more. Lessons focus on Connection to Country, Marine Research, Sustainable Seas and Stewardship.
Lessons include:
• Totems - Indigenous connection and caring for Country
• Super Seaweeds - Algae groups, endemism, kelp forests.
• Giant Kelp - Marine heatwaves and climate change
• Reef Engineers - Abalone farming, shellfish reef restoration, artificial reef design challenge
• Food Webs - Upwellings, sea urchins
• Beach Patrol - Plastic pollution, graphing data
• Giant Cuttlefish - Aggregation population dynamics, cephalopod characteristics, fisheries management.
Student Booklet
Need something ready to go? Download and print out this student booklet targeted at high school students.
Totem Cards
Download a deck of Pokemon inspired GSR marine life themed cards for use in food webs and classification activities.
Stock Imagery
View and download a collection of high res underwater and aerial photos and videos free to use for educational purposes.
Discover a collection of other fantastic Great Southern Reef themed resources, recommended by the GSRF.
Questions or feedback? Email us info@greatsouthernreef.com