Human Impacts on the Environment Years 9-10
Discover how everyday technology choices can shape the future of gorillas in the wild.
This Level 9-10 Geography program explores human-induced environmental change by examining how social, economic, cultural and technological factors influence ecosystems and wildlife. Using gorillas as a case study, students engage in role play and guided investigation to explore how the actions of different community groups affect environments in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and consider ethical responses to these impacts.
Students will learn
- Demographic, economic, social and cultural factors impacting gorilla populations
- How global demand for technology can drive conflict between humans and wildlife
- Ways Australians can support conservation efforts in Africa
Support for teachers
- Great day at the zoo - access to trails and scheduled keeper talks
- Teacher resources with classroom and excursion activities
- Pre-visit information to support planning and preparation
- Opportunity to celebrate learning and become a Fighting Extinction School
Choose your zoo experience
This program is delivered at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Teaching guides include more information about the excursion experience and curriculum links.

Werribee Open Range Zoo
- Focus on impacts of human activity on gorillas and their habitats
- Introduction for groups arriving 9:45-10:00am
- Workshop (30 minutes)
- Safari Bus (40 minutes)
Teaching guide
Workbook
Werribee Open Range Zoo map
Itinerary for 10:10am workshop
Itinerary for 10:50am workshop
Itinerary for 11:30am workshop
Itinerary for 12:10pm workshop
Planning your visit
The Plan Your Visit page has costings, risk assessments, payment information, travel details, sensory maps and social stories.
Your excursion will be outdoors. Please ask your students to dress for the weather.
Book your education experience
Use the online form to book your visit.
Make booking nowWhen you book, please include:
- Name of program
- Preferred date/s
- School name and address
- Contact details of organising teacher
- Number of students/classes and year level
