Sustainability and the Biosphere Years 9-10

This Levels 9-10 Science program explores how human-induced environmental change affects the sustainability of ecosystems, using conservation programs at Zoos Victoria as real-world case studies. Through examining threatened species programs, students investigate the carbon cycle, human impacts on biodiversity and the consequences of habitat loss, fire and climate change, while considering ethical challenges and actions that support long-term ecosystem health.

Students will learn

• How carbon cycles through ecosystems and its role as a resource
• Sustainability practices that reduce carbon contributions to climate change
• How biodiversity and healthy habitats support ecosystem function and threatened species
• Impacts of fire, habitat loss and climate change on ecosystem resilience and regeneration
• Challenges and ethical considerations of captive breeding and releasing threatened species

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 Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo, with each offering a different focus and experience.

Teaching guides include more information about the excursion experience and curriculum links.