Taronga Education 2015

A Teacher’s GuiDe Education with

TarOnga 2015

Each year, Taronga provides education experiences for over 150,000 school students across Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Student experiences are unique and personal, as each child is given the chance to contemplate the wonders of Science and Nature.

Taronga’s programs are designed to connect students with animals and the environment. Together we can facilitate the role they play in securing a shared future for wildlife and people.

“ Unless someone like you cares an awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”DR. SEUSS, THE LORAX

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eDucation at TarOnga 2015Your students will never forget their Zoo PROJECT-STYLE LEARNING experience. The Taronga Education Team works Through our Project–style resources and free EDUCATION PROGRAMS 2015alongside classroom teachers so that together, videoconferencing, Taronga’s engagement with we can connect students with nature Our focus for 2015 is connecting students begins before their Zoo visit. Taronga and encourage all to take action for the students with nature through Science has so much more to offer than just a ‘fun day environment. and Sustainability. These areas are out at the Zoo’. Our Projects are designed to

often seen as challenging to engage your students in authentic project based TARONGA ZOO SYDNEY teach and to integrate into curriculum learning, whilst explicitly meeting key outcomes.

in an exciting and contextual way – but Home to the Cammeraigal People – Taronga we have done the work for you!Zoo is located on Sydney Harbour, only 12 WORKSHOPS AND GUIDED WALKS

minutes by ferry from Circular Quay. This action All learning resources and programs are Workshops and guided walks will not only packed Zoo is home to over 4,000 native and developed and delivered by Education engage your students, but will also inspire and exotic animals with an idyllic backdrop of the Advisors from the NSW Department create memorable experiences. Harbour Bridge and Opera House. of Education and Communities, the

NSW Catholic Education Office and SELF-GUIDED EXPERIENCESTARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO DUBBO Taronga’s qualified teachers. All Both Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Set on Wiradjuri Country, Taronga Western programs and resources are in line with Plains Zoo provide an incredible and stimulating Plains Zoo is an open range setting and includes NSW BOSTES syllabi, in consultation learning environment for your students. Use important breeding programs for species such with the NSW Department of Education our complementary curriculum linked teaching as African Wild Dogs and Rhino. An adventurers’ and Communities Curriculum Advisors. resources prior to your visit to further enhance playground, a trip out west is a guaranteed their learning experience.lifetime experience for your students.

PLANNING AN EXPERIENCE WITH TARONGA? Bookings are essential for all visits and programs.

To book, use the booking enquiry form on the inside back cover of this publication or visit taronga.org.au/education

A TEACHER’S GUIDE TO EDUCATION WITH TARONGA 20154

taronga earth citizen

While Taronga plays a critical role in providing the connections with animals, experts and rich contextual learning resources – the development of the Earth Citizen cannot be achieved without the classroom teacher’s commitment to providing such opportunities for their students.

VISITS TO TARONGA PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN EARTH CITIZEN. SO DO YOU.

Formative period

Formative period

Connections

Inter-connections

Custodianship

EARTH CITIZEN

K–21st Visit

7–123rd Visit

3–62nd Visit

Explore Discover Wonder – Local –

My Surroundings

inquire investigate

interact – Community –

My Impact

research design

take action – Global – My Role

WOLRD VIEWERS SYSTEM SEEKERS FUTURE THINKERS

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New Curriculum – New Perspectives The difference is you!

What do you want your students to get out of Taronga’s resources are developed in line TARONGA EDUCATION’S ‘PROJECT’ MODELa trip to the Zoo? A Zoo excursion can be so with NSW BOSTES Syllabi for all stages of much more than just a fun day out. At school Students begin an investigation development. They strongly support Science,

around a developing central issue. Sustainability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Taronga Education’s new ‘Project-style’ This is reinforced with your free Islander Histories and Cultures and other KLAs. resources make Science and Sustainability pre-visit videoconference.easy and accessible - a ‘bite-sized chunk’ of

Students make use of rich and project based learning to fit into your program At the Zoo engaging information and animal or to develop further.

observations, to further develop The investigation begins at school; the Zoo ideas and begin designing enhances their learning and the solution design solutions to identified issues.and delivery is completed back at school. Zoo With live animals to connect “ Never doubt that a small group Workshop students to nature, first-hand

specialist information, skills and of thoughtful, committed citizens inspiration are imparted. can change the world; indeed,

Back at Students design and deliver a it’s the only thing that ever has.”school product or action with a view to MARGARET MEAD, CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGIST

resolve the issue.


For many young children, their first encounter with an animal experience occurs at the Zoo. Lead your students on a path of wonder and respect for the wildlife around them.

BIRD P

SCIENCEATROL – LIVING THINGS

EARLY STAGE 1 · STE-8NE, STE-1VA, STE-4WS · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Okay detectives - time to investigate. What do the birds in your playground really get up to when everyone has gone back to class? What do they need to survive, and are their needs being met? At Taronga you’ll meet a variety of animals and learn all about the needs of living things. You can take this information back to school and decide what needs to be done to ensure the birds in your playground are happy and healthy.

BACKYARD TO BUSH – LIVING THINGS / ENVIRONMENTS EARLY STAGE 1 · STE-10ME, STE-VA, STE-8NE · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Guided Tour Have you ever been to a farm? How is a farm different to the bush? How is your school different? Let’s go exploring! Your guided tour of Taronga’s Backyard to Bush environmental adventure exhibit takes you from urban to rural to bush environments. Discover how animals’ needs are met and how people interact with them.

BACKYARD BUDDIES – HABITATS STAGE 1 · ST1-4WS, ST1-10LW, ST1-11LW · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Which native animals in your area could do with a helping hand? After completing a fauna survey at your school, visit the Zoo to learn how to create habitats for wildlife. Then, when you are back at school, get busy creating homes for your Backyard Buddy friends. Be prepared to get your hands dirty!

THE BUG GARDEN – HABITATS STAGE 1 · ST1-10LW, ST1-11LW, ST1-4WS, ST1-5WT · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Bugs alive! Identify the invertebrates in a garden at your school and discover if they are a pest or friend? Use microscopes at Taronga to examine the body parts of a range of invertebrates and their predators, and then design a way to improve the bug balance in your garden.

SYDNEY DUBBO

early stage 1 – stage 1

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GEOGRAPHYTHE ZOO IS A SPECIAL PLACE STAGE 1 · ACHGK011 · INTEGRATES WITH SCIENCE

Guided Tour Thinking of a special place to visit? The Zoo is a great case study! The iconic Taronga Zoo Sydney and the open range Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo are both places of significance to a range of people including the traditional owners; the Cammeraigal People from Sydney Harbour and the Wiradjuri People from Dubbo. Steeped in history and alive with animals and a conservation message, Taronga is a special place for all. This guided tour will allow students to decide for themselves what makes the Zoo a special place and have them thinking about the present and future role of Zoos.

ENGLISHChoose conservation-themed children’s picture books based on animals and visit Taronga to further explore these issues and investigate ways to take action.

Some of our favourites include · Bollygum · Wombat Stew · Warrambi · Garbage Guts · The Lorax

Videoconference before your excursion. Book in for a free pre-visit videoconference designed to complement your Zoo excursion.

Take advantage of Taronga's free iPads for hire at both Zoo Education Centres, or bring your own device and download our FREE learning apps.

To book an iPad contact [email protected]

WILD AUSTRALIA APP Explore the fascinating Wild Australia trails whilst being guided by virtual Zookeeper Rod. Take photos, record data and observations and interpret behaviours. Then create your own PDF poster and email it to yourself!

RAINFOREST HEROES APP

Students can wander up to the Fishing Cat and give it a virtual feed, or peer at a Binturong through digital binoculars. Of course there’s also a whole bunch of facts to discover, short movies to watch, and photographs to take. Then compile all your discoveries into a PDF field report.

DEVELOPED BY LEARNING SYSTEMS, NSW DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND COMMUNITIES, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TARONGA ZOO.

Stages 2 – 3


Taronga Education’s workshops are designed to create connections with animals and the natural environment. Students will come face-to-face with a variety of Australian native animals and learn skills to take back to school.

SCIENCEBACKYARD BUDDIES - LIFE CYCLES STAGE 2 · ST2-10LW, ST2-11LW,ST2-4WS, ST2-5WT · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Our local wildlife is doing it pretty tough these days. No matter which stage in thier lifecycle; animals like birds, lizards, frogs and insects could really do with some help. Become a Backyard Buddy and learn how to create a habitat in your school or backyard.

LEMUR FOREST – LIVING WORLD/THE EARTH’S ENVIRONMENT STAGE 2 · ST2-11LW, ST2-4WS, ST2-5WT · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Compare forests around the world and investigate amazing interconnections, such as Lemurs germinating seeds in Madagascar. At Taronga Zoo Sydney, visit the new Lemur Forest Adventure and at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, visit the Lemur breeding facility. Let Taronga’s Lemurs inspire your students to investigate and design ways to save paper at school and home.

PLASTIC PREDATOR – ADAPTATIONS STAGE 3 · ST3 - 10LW, ST3-11LW, ST3- 4WS, ST3-5WT, ST3-13MW INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Project Outline Adaptations are the remarkable features that have evolved in animals over millions of years to help them survive in their environment, but what happens when that environment starts to change? Plastic bag or jellyfish? It can be hard for animals to tell! Visit Taronga to observe a range of animal adaptations and discuss the challenges animals face today. Back at school, design a way to combat the serious threats our wildlife is facing due to plastic pollution.

GEOGRAPHYSee the Cross-Curricular Priories Section ‘Asia and Australia’s Engagement with Asia’ for our Stage 3 Geography experiences. (Refer to pg 12).

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Videoconference before your excursion. Book in for a free pre-visit videoconference designed to complement your Zoo excursion.

Take advantage of Taronga's free iPads for hire at both Zoo Education Centres, or bring your own device and download our FREE learning apps.

To book an iPad contact [email protected]

WILD AUSTRALIA APP Explore the fascinating Wild Australia trails whilst being guided by virtual Zookeeper Rod. Take photos, record data and observations and interpret behaviours. Then create your own PDF poster and email it to yourself!

RAINFOREST HEROES APP

Students can wander up to the Fishing Cat and give it a virtual feed, or peer at a Binturong through digital binoculars. Of course there’s also a whole bunch of facts to discover, short movies to watch, and photographs to take. Then compile all your discoveries into a PDF field report.

DEVELOPED BY LEARNING SYSTEMS, NSW DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND COMMUNITIES, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TARONGA ZOO.

SYDNEY DUBBO


Stages 4 – 6Critical thinking and working scientifically are key skills for a student to learn. Taronga offers exclusive access to Scientists, subject experts and research models to effect behaviour change for conservation.

Science and Senior BiologyCLASSIFICATION AND ADAPTATIONS STAGE 4 · SC4 -14LW, SC4 - 15LW, SC4-8WS

Workshop Marvel at a range of vertebrates and invertebrates during this hands-on workshop. Students will learn the evolutionary significance of the features that classify these creatures and discover amazing adaptations that have given our native wildlife the edge for survival.

THE WEB WE WEAVE – ECOLOGY STAGE 4 · SC5 -14LW, SC5 - 15LW INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY (LANDFORMS AND LANDSCAPES)

Project Outline Explore the fragile nature of ecosystems by studying a threatened Australian environment and a specific threatened species that Taronga is helping to conserve. Meet Australian animals, learn detailed examples of interactions in foodwebs and hear how Taronga is contributing to species recovery plans for threatened Australian animals.

ECO SCIENTISTS – ECOLOGY STAGE 5 · SC5 -14LW, SC5 - 15LW · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY (INTERCONNECTIONS)

Project Outline Using Taronga’s Science Conservation projects as case studies, students will develop an understanding of the need for scientific research in identifying threatened species, assess the impact of the species decline on the wider ecosystem and contribute to species recovery through the creation of their own Threatened Species Recovery Plan.

SENIOR BIOLOGY TOPICS STAGE 6

Visit either Zoo for a specialist Biology workshop with live animals that will provide a deep understanding through contextualised case studies. Topics include: - Evolution of Australian Biota - Maintaining a Balance - The Human Story - Communication All Senior Biology Workshops are also available via videoconference from either location.

SYDNEY DUBBO

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GEOGRAPHYTAKE ACTION - INTERCONNECTIONS STAGE 5 · GE5-2, GE5-3, GE5-4, GE5-5 · INTEGRATES WITH SCIENCE

Taronga’s Community Conservation Campaigns are the ideal resource for students to explore case studies of global issues affecting wildlife. This workshop will guide students through the Connect Understand Act model using one of the Zoo’s campaigns, to deliver one or to develop their very own. Choose from: - Illegal Wildlife Trade - Coltan Mining - Sustainable Seafood - Beads for Wildlife- Palm Oil

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGYZOO ENCLOSURE DESIGN STAGE 4 - 5 · P4.1.1, P4.1.2, P4.2.1, P4.3.2, P4.4.1, P4.5.1, P4.6.2 INTEGRATES WITH SCIENCE (ADAPTATIONS)

Project Outline Zoos have been around since the mid-18th century, but over time the design of Zoo exhibits has changed as a direct reflection of the values and understandings of society, in particular in the field of Science. Modern Zoos are now considered Conservation, Education and Research facilities and support both conservation within their doors and For the Wild! Undertake scientific research on animals in the Taronga collection and using your knowledge of the animal’s adaptations, develop a design brief for a new animal exhibit. Take into consideration; animal welfare and enrichment, visitor engagement and interpretation, keeper safety and functionality, as well as budget and heritage constraints plus ethical and sustainable design principles.

BUSINESS STUDIESIT’S ZOO BUSINESS STAGE 5 - 6

A unique organisation, Taronga plays an important role in global wildlife conservation programs and requires a strong business model to achieve set objectives. Join one of our educators and discover the strategies employed to ensure our goals are met, these include marketing, operations and finance.

VISUAL ARTSTAGE 4 - 6

Animals are an excellent subject matter for life drawing. Bring clipboards, charcoals and pencils for an up-close and hands-on sketching workshop with a variety of Australian and exotic animals.

Leadership and Senior Pathways ENDANGER RANGER STAGE 4-5

Project Outline Students will discover elements of Aboriginal culture and draw parallels between the role of Aboriginal Culture in environmental custodianship and that of modern-day Rangers in conservation projects. Students will learn to act safely and to demonstrate through their actions, attitudes and behaviour, a respect for themselves, others and ultimately, the environment.

MEET A KEEPER STAGE 4 – 6

This unique, one day program for 14+ year old students includes a seminar presented by a talented panel of Zoo staff members, a behind-the-scenes tour and a chance to experience what it is really like to work at the Zoo.

WILD ROPES STAGE 4 – 6

Have your students take on Taronga’s exciting new sky high ropes course. Students will relish the thrill of learning about themselves, each other and the environment while they master suspension bridges, tunnels, obstacles and flying foxes. Watch them build confidence, create amazing bonds through team work and gain a greater appreciation for outdoor activities, animals and nature.

3 Cross-Curricular PrioritiesAbOriginal Torres Strait IslanDer histOries and cultures


Our wide variety of experiences and workshops have been created in partnership with local Aboriginal communities and at Taronga Zoo are delivered by an Aboriginal Education Officer.

EARLY STAGE 1 – STAGE 1 DREAMING AND LIVING ON THE LAND

Dreaming stories are an integral part of Aboriginal culture. This workshop combines Dreaming stories with native animal encounters.

STAGE 2, STAGE 3 CAMMERAIGAL CONNECTIONS WIRADJURI WANDERINGS

A unique, guided walking tour tailored for each Zoo location; incorporating Dreaming stories and cultural elements, drawing a connection between Aboriginal People and nature.

STAGE 4, STAGE 5 CONNECTING TO COUNTRY

This fascinating workshop presentation incorporates history, culture, identity and the importance of the land’s role in kinship, spirituality and everyday life.

Asia Australia’s engagement with Asia

SYDNEY DUBBO

Both Zoo settings and the educational resources we offer, provide a rich and unique opportunity for teachers to integrate all three Priorities into your learning programs.

1313

Taronga’s Conservation Campaigns provide a thought-provoking and inspiring subject matter for investigation and students to ‘take action’.

STAGE 3 RAISE YOUR PALM WORKSHOP · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

A topical discussion on palm oil and the need for sustainable plantations to protect endangered species such as the Sumatran Tiger and Orang-utan. Learn how Raising your Palm will make a difference.

STAGE 3 WILDLIFE WITNESS WORKSHOP · INTEGRATES WITH GEOGRAPHY

Globally, illegal wildlife trade is the second greatest threat to species survival. Discuss with a Zoo educator the dilemmas surrounding this South-East Asian wildlife crisis and learn how you can become a Wildlife Witness and reduce the threat.

Sustainability Taronga’s programs provide the ‘one stop shop’ for helping teachers deliver quality Science and Sustainability in their classroom and beyond.

PROJECT IN-SITU COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PROGRAM INTEGRATES WITH SCIENCE, GEOGRAPHY

Taronga’s Project In-situ is a DIY toolkit for you to deliver best practice project based learning for sustainability.

This inspiring model takes your students on an exciting journey where they investigate a locally threatened species, consult with the agencies that are currently helping, join them in the field, then design a way to effect community awareness and behaviour change.

DOWNLOAD

PROJECT IN-SITU TOOLKIT

YOUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLANNING FOR LOCALLY THREATENED WILDLIFE

after hoursAn after-hours adventure is an experience your students will keep with them for a lifetime.

Image: Billabong Camp Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

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Bring your creatures to spend the night with ours!

Explore Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo exclusively at night.

Incorporated into any curriculum-related excursion, this is a great way for your students to learn about animals and the environment in a fun engaging way. Whether an overnight sleepover or exclusive evening tour, students will get to meet animals up close, discover wild creatures on an immersive Zoo night walk and create memories of a lifetime.

ZOOSNOOZ TARONGA ZOO SYDNEY

Cost: from $74*

Availability: School terms | Mon – Thu 5pm – 9.30am + the following day Zoo entry Participants: min 15, max 80

TWILIGHT SAFARI TARONGA ZOO SYDNEY

Cost: from $34* Availability: School terms | Mon – Thu 6pm - 9pm Participants: min 20, max 80

TWILIGHT SAFARI TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO, DUBBO

Cost: From $34* Availability: School terms | Mon - Thurs 5.30pm - 9pm Participants: min 22, max 80

BILLABONG CAMP ZOOSNOOZ TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO, DUBBO

Cost: From $74* Availability: School Terms | Mon - Thurs 5pm – 8.30am + following day Zoo entry Participants: min 22, max 80

Looking for more adventure?

A five hour drive from Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals, like rhinos and big cats. Walk, ride or drive your way around the 6km circuit, taking in animal exhibits, lush picnic grounds and wild spaces. A perfect excuse to explore the Western region of NSW.

An overnight stay at Billabong Camp offers an immersive bush camping experience with tents situated around a picturesque billabong.

Plan your expedition now. Call 02 6881 1433

SYDNEY DUBBO * Prices subject to change.

OTHER WAYS TO ENGAGE WITH TARONGA

SELF-GUIDED EXPERIENCESBoth Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo offer unique learning precincts where students can immerse themselves in the natural world at their own pace.

When booking a self-guided excursion

· Utilise our complementary curriculum linked teaching resources

· P re-arrange food and beverage packages with our onsite catering

· Check out our daily timetables for talk and show schedules

· Book our free iPads or bring your own device to use our free educational apps


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INCURSIONS Taronga’s incursion programs are available from both Zoos. We cater for all ages and abilities and our sessions can be tailored to meet your curriculum needs.

ZOOMOBILE

A great alternative to a Zoo visit, these native animal workshops can cater to your choice of curriculum topic.

ANIMALS OF THE DREAMING WITH COL HARDY

Experience an entertaining performance combining Dreaming stories, songs and artifacts, with live animals and environmental messages. Proudly presented by OAM recipient and Aboriginal Elder Col Hardy.

NSW COUNTRY TRIPS

Contact Taronga Zoo Sydney or your local Environmental Education Centre to find out when the Zoomobile will pass through your town.

Time: Up to 1 hour

Costs: Zoomobile: From $270* for up to 60 students Animals of the Dreaming: From $390* for up to 60 students Country Trips: Prices vary

To make a booking contact the Zoomobile Coordinator [email protected]

VIRTUAL EXCURSIONS

Book in for a free virtual excursion designed to complement your Zoo excursion. Specialised workshops and environmentally themed events are also available to book. Choose from Videoconferencing, Skype or Adobe Connect to engage with teachers, keepers, scientists and animals. The next best thing to being there!

* Pricing structures vary.DUBBOSYDNEY


Professional Learning

Taronga Teachers AssOciationTaronga’s Teachers Member Benefits Include

Association (TTA) is a · Unlimited free Zoo entry to both Taronga

professional membership Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo

group committed to · Professional networking opportunities

supporting and assisting · Access to k eynote lectures, conferences, workshops and special behind-the-scenes

teachers to become tours and eventsinspired and effective · VIP invitations and free access to environmental educators. Taronga’s accredited courses

· C ollaborative curriculum sharing opportunities

Join today and become a part of our vision. · Discounted Zoo parking (Sydney)

Fee: $65 to join, $55 annual fee. VIP pricing for teachers in Dubbo area.

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BoOking Enquiry FOrmPLEASE NOTE BOOKINGS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY, TARONGA WILL CONTACT YOU TO CONFIRM YOUR BOOKING.

FOR TARONGA ZOO FOR TARONGA WESTERN SYDNEY BOOKINGS PLAINS ZOO DUBBO BOOKINGS

Photocopy and scan/email or Photocopy and scan/email or fax this form to 02 9978 4508 fax this form to 02 6884 4530

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

EXCURSION ORGANISER CONTACT DETAILS

Name

Phone Email

Email of accounts department [MANDATORY]

o I would like to receive information about education programs and events

SCHOOL DETAILS

School Name

Address

Phone Fax

Email

EXCURSION DETAILS

Location of visit or program booking o Sydney o Dubbo

Date(s) of the planned excursion

Year level(s) of students Number of students attending on the day

I would like to book a o Zoo Education workshop o Guided walk o Self-guided excursion o ZoosnooZ o Twilight Safari o Zoomobile o Sky Safari (Sydney only)

Workshop Topic Other Information

* Prices subject to change.

taronga.org.au/education

Documents

Taronga Education 2015