Explorer Course
Curriculum Link: Section 5 – Living Things Module
This course is a joint initiative between Fota Wildlife Park and Discover Primary Science programme(DPS). In association with Forfás, the primary conservation explorer course has been designed to complement Section 5 of the Primary School Science Curriculum strands: Learning about Plants & Animals and Environmental Awareness and Care.
The Primary Conservation Explorer course introduces students to the area of ecology and environmental awareness. The course is designed to allow children to become more aware and to engender a respect for their surroundings through a number of “hands on activities” as outlined below. The course is very much based on a “play” approach to learning in order to explain some of the fundamental ecological concepts.
Activity Number 1: Basic Ecology (45mins interactive presentation)
A number of habitats from around the globe will be reviewed and their associated animal and plant life will be looked at. Additional ecological concepts such as feeding relationships and adaptations will also be discussed.
Activity Number 2: Practical Woodland Survey (I hr)
Practical Minibeast sampling - Pitfall traps, Pooters and Beating trays Using a variety of sampling techniques, participants are introduced to the diversity of animal and plant life in an Irish woodland. Differences in body structure and colouration will also be explained.
Colour and Survival in habitats - The importance of camouflage
Following a pre-selected trail, participants are introduced to the importance of careful observation, and work as a team to imitate a flock of birds looking for food. Results are discussed which might suggest that there is a survival advantage in camouflage and concealment for minibeasts.
Who eats who? - Food Webbing Having spent a period of time in the woodland, participants will obtain a knowledge of the different animals and plants living there. The aim of this activity is to place emphasis on the general idea of linking chains to form a food web. The importance of all living creatures in the ecosystem and the complex interactions that exist between members are discussed. Students will also begin to recognise the impact of human actions on the environment and will come to appreciate the importance of conserving the diversity of life.
Activity Number 3: Guided Tour Of Fota Wildlife Park (45 mins)
The guided tour of the wildlife park is designed to reiterate the various ecological concepts which the students have learnt . The tour will emphasise the importance of each animal species in its native habitat and will review its ecological requirements.
For further information on the DPS programme and advice on DPS follow-up activities available or to book a place on the DPS programme please call: (021) 4812678 or email education@fotawildlife.ie
Important: Classes must be booked in advance and please quote your DPS number at time of booking.
To get a better of idea of what your school will see click here to see a video
