Wetlands, waders and water boatmen

Book a Learning Through Action school programme

Risk analysis and management information (RAMS) will be sent out once a programme booking is confirmed. If you require this at any other stage please email LTA@ccc.govt.nz or contact us(external link).

Programme overview

Year level Years 3 to 10
Curriculum level Levels 1 to 5
Availability Year-round
Times 9.30am to 12noon, or 12.15pm to 2.30pm
Site Travis Wetland Reserve
Cost Free
Number of students Maximum of 35
Special requirements In wet conditions, gumboots are recommended

Key concepts

  • Biodiversity of a wetland.
  • The interdependence of the plants and animals in a wetland system.
  • Native and introduced species.
  • Food chains.
  • Personal and social responsibility for action.

Lesson description

Take a trip to Ōruapaeroa, Travis Wetland; Christchurch’s largest freshwater wetland.

This is the ideal place to learn about the important role wetlands play in providing precious habitats for native plants and creatures.

Students go pond-dipping and get up close and personal with aquatic invertebrates, and get in behind a pair of binoculars to observe local birdlife.

Taking a look at food chains allows students to understand how all this new information is connected and see the potential human impact on some of our green spaces.

Learning outcomes

We are learning to:

  • Identify a range of bird life and stream invertebrates.
  • Describe the relationships between organisms in the wetland habitat.
  • Describe why wetlands are important.
  • Identify choices they can make to look after the wetland habitat.

Key competencies

Using language, symbols and texts

Students will explore the history of Travis Wetland through visual, oral and written texts; communicating and applying their learning through activities.

Thinking

Students will employ critical thinking to make connections regarding the interdependence of creatures which live in a wetland environment.

Managing self

Students will manage their learning and think and act independently in an outdoor near-water environment.

Participating and contributing

Students are invited to become actively involved in contributing to the quality and sustainability of the Travis Wetland ecosystem.

Relating to others

Students will work collaboratively and supportively to complete tasks; take turns and support their classmates.

Achievement objectives

Curriculum area Strand and level Objective
Science
Pūtaiao
Nature of Science
Levels 1 to 5
Investigating in science
Communicating in science
Participating and contributing
Living World
Levels 1 to 5
Life processes
Ecology
Evolution
Social Sciences
Tikanga ā-Iwi
Levels 1 to 5 Social studies
Health and Physical Education
Hauora
Personal Health and Physical Development
Level 2
Safety management