Interconnections and Human Impacts Years 7-8

This Level 7-8 Science program explores interconnections within ecosystems by examining how animal adaptations, environmental change and human activity influence survival. Using gorillas as a case study, students investigate African habitats, explore the impacts of activities such as mining and tourism through role play, and develop solutions to support conservation.

Students will learn

• Unique features of African animals and how they are adapted to their environments
• Factors influencing gorilla populations, including environmental and human pressures
• How demand for technology has driven coltan mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo
• How to communicate ideas and propose solutions to complex environmental challenges
• Ways Australians can support gorilla conservation 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.