Whinray Forest Track interactive education programme
A native bush interpretation walk, following the easy grade Whinray Scenic Reserve Track, has been developed for Year 1-13 students.
The interpretation walk was developed by the Whinray Ecological Charitable Trust with the support of the Department of Conservation.
Aim
The aim of the interpretation is for students to develop an understanding of ecological and social webs in general, with a specific focus on Whinray Scenic Reserve.
Themes
51 numbered battens have been set up along the track in Whinray Scenic Reserve at Motu, one hour's drive from Gisborne.
The battens touch upon a variety of themes including:
- social history of the track and the area
- plant identification
- animal pests
- endangered birds in the reserve
- geology
- insects
- fungi and mosses
- ecological concepts including:
-
- forest structure and succession
- forest recycling
- pollination
- water cycle
- phototropism
- and much more
Most of the themes are touched upon at several different battens. This means that students can focus on a particular theme (such as forest structure and succession) and visit all the battens pertaining to that theme and see clear examples of it. Classes can be divided into groups and each group can focus on a different theme.
Worksheets
Each batten is associated with a colourful, laminated A4 worksheet.
Worksheets introduce the subject of each batten and have tasks and questions for the students. A separate worksheet for group leaders also includes a set of answers and a map.
The worksheets encourage a 'hands on' approach to support 'Inquiry Learning', Science in the Living World, Maths, Measurement and Art.
If worksheets are studied beforehand, the interpretation walk can be used to provide real life examples and consolidate learning. Alternatively, the walk can be used as a doorway into new studies.
Tools
Tools such as crayons, magnifying glasses and tape measures are required.
Guides
If group leaders are unfamiliar with the bush environment, please enquire, a guide may be available to take students through the reserve.
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