Habitat Gardens

Natural habitats in our cities are declining and contributing to the loss of biodiversity. Learn about the role of habitat gardens and how it can improve the health of urban biodiversity.

• What are the key elements and design features of a habitat garden?
• What purpose do plants provide to animals in a habitat garden?
• What species are likely to live in a habitat garden?

• 3-4 Different living things have different life cycles and depend on each other and the environment to survive (VCSSU058)
• 3-4 Critique needs or opportunities for designing and explore and test a variety of materials, components, tools and equipment and the techniques needed to create designed solutions (VCDSCD028)
• 5-6 The growth and survival of living things are affected by the physical conditions of their environment (VCSSU075)
• 5-6 Critique needs or opportunities for designing, and investigate materials, components, tools, equipment and processes to achieve intended designed solutions (VCDSCD038)

In this session, students view a short video to explore:
• Two established habitat gardens at suburban homes and their design features
• Habitat structures that mimic a natural landscape (groundcover, grass, shrubs, climbers and canopy)
• What role plants play in supporting biodiversity (shelter, food, breeding)
• Other physical features such as water, sun, shade and protection
• The type of animals that may live in a habitat garden

This will be followed by a Q&A session with an EcoCentre educator. Students will also be introduced to follow-up activities including: 1) investigating your local habitat at home, school, or nearby parks; 2) planting a native seed, and 3) making a concept drawing (design) of a habitat garden.

This incursion is delivered online using Zoom. A teacher and class can join the session from the classroom or remotely from home. A meeting link and instructions will be sent out with the booking confirmation. Minimum group size is 10, maximum group size is 100.