Category Archives: Schools & Curriculum

The Human Impact: How Our Actions Shape Marine Habitats and Ecosystems

 

Each day, our actions impact on the environment, shaping marine habitats and ecosystems that countless species depend on for their survival. From the bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef to melting polar ice caps, day by day human impact is driving significant changes in our natural world. In understanding such impacts, we can teach students how to protect the fragile ecosystems that sustain life on earth.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef: A Unique Marine Habitat at Risk

Located along Australia’s northeast coast and spanning over 2,300 kilometres, The Great Barrier Reef, is one of the world’s most complex and diverse ecosystems.  It is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 400 types of coral, and a diverse range of other marine creatures like sea turtles and dugongs. This beautiful and vibrant reef is an essential marine habitat that supports abundant marine life, protects Australia’s eastern coastlines from erosion, and contributes to global climate regulation.

However, this remarkable ecosystem is under threat due to human impact. Climate change, pollution, and overfishing are causing severe disruptions, including coral bleaching and the destruction of critical habitats. If we don’t act soon, the survival of the Great Barrier Reef’s diverse species—and the livelihoods of Australian communities that rely on it—will be at risk.

The Effect of Human Impact on Australian Marine Ecosystems – Coral Bleaching

Coral bleaching occurs due to rising ocean temperatures. Human Impact contributes to this climate change, as pollutants from vehicles and factories create an insulative layer in our atmosphere. Persistently warmer water temperatures cause corals to expel the algae that provide them with food and vibrant colours. Without these algae, corals become vulnerable and they eventually die, leaving behind a bleached, lifeless coral reef. Temperature rise isn’t the only problem—ocean acidification, driven by increased carbon dioxide levels, also weakens coral skeletons, making them more susceptible to damage.

Marine ecosystems are disrupted by the loss of coral reefs and this in turn harms local economies, including tourism and fishing industries that depend on these habitats for healthy fish stocks.

Polar Bears and Habitat Loss: The Impact of Melting Ice

The melting of polar ice caps is one of the most visible effects of human impact. These ice caps provide critical habitat for polar bears, who rely on the sea ice for resting, hunting, and breeding. As ocean temperatures rise, polar bear’s ice habitat is rapidly disappearing, causing them to need to travel and swim longer distances to find food. This can lead to exhaustion and starvation.

This reduction in the volume of ice also brings polar bears into closer contact with humans as they search for food in populated areas inland, increasing the potential for conflict. If global temperatures continue to rise, polar bears and the Arctic ecosystem could be in jeopardy .

2025 has been named the UN International Year of Glacier’s Preservation. This is to highlight the importance of glaciers and the fact that they are disappearing at an alarming rate,

How Schools Can Help Protect Habitats and Ecosystems

At Ocean Life Education, we partner with Australian schools to teach students about the importance of protecting habitats and ecosystems. Human impact—such as plastic pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction—can harm these ecosystems, but small changes in our daily lives can make a difference. Teaching students how to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable practices helps protect the ecosystems they rely on.

Find out about our Primary Habitats, Ecosystems, and Human Impact Incursions and incursions here.

The Role of Educators: Protecting Australia’s Ecosystems for Future Generations

As educators, we play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. By teaching students about the importance of habitats, the human impact on ecosystems, and ways to protect the environment, we can help ensure a sustainable future for Australia’s natural landscapes and marine life.

Together, we can make a difference! 🌊🐠💙

About Ocean Life Education

Ocean Life Education (OLE) is dedicated to raising awareness about the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the growing threats they face. We offer interactive, curriculum-driven programs designed specifically for Australian primary schools. Through live marine animal encounters and immersive experiences, students learn about marine life, ecosystems, and the importance of conservation.

Our hands-on educational programs are designed to engage students of all ages and inspire a love of the ocean and its creatures. We bring the wonders of marine life directly into the classroom through mobile incursions, excursions, and special events across South East Queensland.

 

Find out about our Primary marine Habitats, Ecosystems, and Human Impact Incusrions and incursions here.

Resources and Further Reading 

Primary Programs

Primary Habitats

For more information about what we do, check out Ocean Life Education.

We hoped you enjoyed reading our blog: The Human Impact: How Our Actions Shape Marine Habitats and Ecosystems

Here’s a link to our other news

Teaching Life Cycles of Humpback Whales

Humpback Life Cycles

 

Humpback whales are amongst the most fascinating marine mammals. Their annual migration up and down Queensland’s coast provides a fantastic learning opportunity for regional students. This blog offers educators valuable information about humpback whale life cycles, habitats, and threats, along with engaging discussion points and activities that can be brought to life with a trip to the coast to view the spectacle that is the annual humpback migration.

Ocean Life Education can support curriculum learning by hosting a humpback whale themed incursion or coastal excursion or event during the Queensland annual whale watching season (June-Oct), focusing on crucial aspects of the humpback whale life cycle and tailor-making the program to your needs.

Humpback migration map Australia

The Journey from Antarctica to Queensland

Each year, around 20,000 humpback whales embark on one of the longest migrations of any species. They cover around 10,000 kilometres from the Antarctica to the warm water of Queensland further north. This journey occurs between May and November, and is vital for the survival of their species, ensuring a safe environment for calving and nurturing young during the crucial first stage of their life cycle.

Great Barrier ReefWhy Do Humpback Whales Choose Queensland’s Warm Waters?

Northern Queensland and The Great Barrier Reef provide the perfect conditions (see Habitats Program) for humpback whale mothers and their calves. Unlike the food-rich waters of Antarctica, the tropical waters offer safety from predators like orcas and warmth for the less insulated calves – that haven’t yet developed sufficient blubber for cold temperatures.

Humpback whales also mate during this time in warmer waters.

Humpback whale life cycle resource

 

As mammals, humpback whales give birth to live young after an 11-month pregnancy.

When born, a calf is about four to five metres long and weighs nearly a tonne! The mother immediately helps it to the surface for its first breath and begins nursing it with nutrient-rich fatty milk, which helps it grow rapidly.

Early Development

The relationship between a mother and her calf is crucial for its survival. Mothers protect their calves and teach them essential skills, such as swimming – mimicking the mother, breathing, and using vocalisations to communicate.

A calf drinks a staggering 600 litres of milk daily, enabling it to gain strength and blubber quickly in order to survive the journey back south to the icy cold waters of Antarctica.

After several months in Queensland’s waters, mother and calf begin their long journey back to Antarctica. This phase is challenging for the young whale, as it must adapt to colder temperatures and start learning how to find food on its own. By the time they reach Antarctica, the calf is much stronger and more independent.

Reproduction & Maturity

Humpback whales reach reproductive age after around 5-10 years. Once mature, they then mate during the long journey north.

Humpback whales live until they are about 50 years old, when they complete the humpback whale life cycle.

Teaching Opportunities in the Classroom

Humpback Whale Life CyclesEducators can integrate humpback whale life cycles, humpback whale migration, and marine conservation into science, geography, and environmental studies. Here are some ideas for classroom activities:

  1. Mapping the Migration – Have students trace the migration route and identify key locations such as The Antarctic, Hervey Bay, and the Great Barrier Reef. Check out our Humpback Whale Migration Calender.
  1. Whale-Watching Research – Book an Ocean Life Education hosted excursion to explore local whale-watching opportunities along the Queensland coast and discuss conservation efforts as outlined in our Human Impact Incursions.
  1. Creative Writing – Ask students to write a diary entry from the perspective of a migrating whale calf. Our Ocean Literacy incursions can set you up perfectly for this.
  1. Marine Animal Comparisons – Compare humpback whales with other marine animals, focusing on reproduction and survival strategies. Ocean Life Education’s interactive marine displays offer the perfect opportunity to compare with a diverse range of marine species, including fish and turtles.
  1. Environmental Awareness – Discuss threats such as climate change, shark nets, plastic pollution, and ship strikes, and brainstorm ways to help protect marine life. Ocean Life Education’s Human Impact Program, The Earth Under Threat, develops an understanding of the issues and how students can take responsibility for conservation.

Observing Whales in the Wild

From June to October, teachers and students can witness the magnificent sight of humpback whales along the Queensland coast. Observing their playful behaviours, such as breaching and tail-slapping, provides an exciting way to connect learning with real-world experiences. Check out our whale watching guide to find out more.

Conclusion

Humpback whales are a vital part of Australia’s marine ecosystem, and their migration offers a compelling educational topic. By teaching students about these magnificent creatures, educators can foster a love for marine conservation and inspire future generations to protect our oceans. 

By integrating humpback whale life cycles, humpback whale migration, and Great Barrier Reef whale conservation into your lessons, you can provide students with valuable knowledge about marine life and the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.

Having the annual humpback migration passing by our coastline each year is an invaluable opportunity for children to appreciate these magnificent creatures in the wild. What a wonderful place East Coast Australia is to live! 

 

About Ocean Life EducationJaide Cambourne Ocean Life Education

Our oceans are full of the most incredible biodiversity, from plankton to enormous whales, all playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet. Ocean Life Education’s aim is to  raise awareness about the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the threats they face today.

We bring the ocean to life with our mobile incursions, engaging excusions, and events across South East Queensland! Visiting early learning centers, schools, and other settings, we deliver interactive, curriculum-based programs featuring live marine animals and live marine displays.

Our diverse team of live marine animals includes a baby shark, freshwater turtle, sea stars, sea cucumbers and sea urchins.

Resources and Further Reading 

Whale Resources and online courses 

For more information about what we do, check out Ocean Life Education.

We hoped you enjoyed reading our blog: Teaching Humpback Whale Life Cycles

Here’s a link to our other news

Year 6 Science Incursions in Brisbane

 

Open Ocean Habitat

Ocean Life Education’s Habitats Program

Ocean Life Education’s Habitats – Physical Conditions program elevates Year 6 students’ understanding of habitats by focusing on marine environments. Students will explore the specific physical conditions required for marine animals to survive and thrive. They will learn how changes to these conditions can negatively affect marine life, leading to poor health or even death. The program encourages discussions on strategies to prevent these harmful impacts in the future.

During our Habitats incursions, students will delve into a diverse range of physical conditions, including:

  • Temperature
  • Salinity
  • Light
  • Nutrients
  • Current flow
  • Waves
  • Turbidity
  • Depth
Coral Habitat

The Great Barrier Reef

Habitats Case Study: The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Our focus will be on Queensland’s coral reef habitat, particularly the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef, located right at our doorstep. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it is essential to understand the physical conditions necessary for its survival so we can work to preserve it for the future.

What is Coral?

coral polyps

coral polyps

Though corals resemble plants on the ocean floor, they are actually marine animals related to jellyfish and sea anemones. Corals belong to the Cnidaria group, known for their stinging tentacles.

These invertebrates are colonial organisms, meaning many individuals live and grow connected in colonies. The Great Barrier Reef hosts around six hundred coral species which are made up of polyps, clear tube-like structures with stinging tentacles used for catching prey and defence.

Coral Reef Habitat – Necessities to Thrive

Temperature: Corals thrive in warm tropical waters, ideally between 23–29°C.

Salinity: They prefer salty conditions with salinity levels between 32–42 ppt.

Light: Sunlight is crucial for coral survival, as symbiotic algae within them need to photosynthesize to produce food.

Nutrients: Low nutrient levels are important to prevent smothering; calcium is essential for building coral skeletons.

Current Flow: Currents bring food, calcium, and disperse sediment, aiding in photosynthesis and coral spawn distribution.

Waves: Waves provide oxygen, food, and prevent sediment buildup on corals.

Turbidity: Low turbidity ensures sunlight penetration, crucial for coral survival.

Depth: Corals thrive in shallow waters, up to 70 meters, but prefer depths between the surface and 30 meters for optimal sunlight.

Human Impact

Coral Bleaching

Students will explore how human activities have altered the reef’s physical habitat and its effects on marine life. They will also discuss strategies to minimize negative impacts on the reef now and in the future.

Coral Bleaching

Climate change has raised water temperatures, especially in the northern Great Barrier Reef, surpassing 29°C and causing coral bleaching. Discussions will cover human actions like carbon pollution from cars and factories that accelerate climate change. Students will learn about coral bleaching, its causes, and potential prevention measures.

Land Clearing

The removal of trees and vegetation near coastal and river areas increases soil erosion, leading to sediment washing into oceans. This sediment smothers and kills coral. Students will investigate the effects of land clearing on marine environments.

Extension to Human Impact on the Ocean

Other human activities like plastic pollution and the use of shark nets and baited drum lines for shark control will be discussed. Students will learn about plastic’s harmful effects on marine life, particularly sea turtles.

The use of shark nets and drum lines since 1962, which results in unnecessary harm to marine animals, will be debated. The discussion will focus on modern, more effective technologies for protecting humans and marine life at beaches.

Ocean Life Education Habitats – 3 Minute VideoHabitats Short Video 

In this short film, Ocean Life Education’s Director of Education, Richard Coward, highlights key Habitats learning points using our marine animals as examples. It’s a great precursor to an incursion, which can be watched with students as a quick taster and talking point in advance of our visit.

A Note About Year 6 Curriculum Science

This incursion aligns with the Australian Curriculum content description ‘Science Understanding’ under the sub strand of ‘Biological Science’ for year 6’…

The growth and survival of living things are affected by physical conditions of their environment. 

Creating Ocean Advocates

At Ocean Life Education, we believe people protect what they know and love. Our mission is to inspire a deep connection to the ocean in children through engaging science incursions. By creating hands-on, memorable experiences, we aim to spark a lifelong passion for marine conservation and the ocean’s wonders.

 

Useful links

Overview of Marine Habitats

Habitats Fact Sheets

Other Primary Resources

Our Primary Incursions

 

Recent Blogs

Year 7 – Habitats

Year 3 – Life Cycles

Year 1 – Habitats

Our Primary Incursions

Here’s a link to our other news

Year 7 Science Incursions in Brisbane

 

Ocean Life Education’s Classification Program

Ocean Life Education’s year 7 science incursions in Brisbane provide students with a solid foundation of a variety of ocean-focused themes in line with the Australian Curriculum. One of our most popular programs is Classification, which focuses on helping students organize their understanding of the world around them, enhancing critical thinking and observational skills.

During our Classification incursions, students will explore the grouping of living organisms based on their observed features, functions, and adaptations for survival. They will understand the reasons behind animal classification and discover both similarities and differences among various marine animals. Additionally, the importance of scientific communication will be emphasised, and students will engage in simple classification exercises of marine species using scientific conventions for naming species.

 

Simple Classification of our Marine Animals

We bring a fascinating and diverse range of live marine animals along to our science incursions, including a baby shark, a freshwater turtle, a variety of sea stars, sea cucumbers and sea urchins. This enables us to look at a range of classifications first hand. For example, our echinoderms…

 

Sand Sea StarEchinoderms

Sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers are all classified as echinoderms – named for the spines or bumps covering the outer surface of the bodies (Greek root word echino– meaning spiny; Latin root word –derm meaning skin).

Children learn that echinoderms, despite their diverse appearances, share two key features that distinguish them from other animals: a water vascular system and five-sided radial symmetry. These characteristics are fundamental to their movement and body structure, highlighting the unique adaptations of this fascinating group.

The water vascular system in echinoderms consists of canals filled with seawater that aid movement, feeding, nutrition, and respiration. Hydraulic pressure allows tube feet to extend and retract, enabling them to move around and interact with their environment.

The pentamerous radial symmetry structure of echinoderms makes the body strong as a five-segment skeleton is stronger than a four- or six-sided one (because the line of weakness cannot run directly across the body).

Our sea stars, urchins and cucumbers offer a fitting example of all these characteristics and the children have fun while learning to classify them themselves. We also discuss how our shark and turtle may be classified but in less detail.

 

Marine Classification – Table Activity Classification Activity Table

Here, students observe our live marine animals and then apply their learning to categorise animals themselves into a table. This is a great activity for year 7 science as students become scientists, drawing their own conclusions from the data and observations.

 

Marine Classification – 3 Minute Video

In this short film, Ocean Life Education’s Director of Education, Richard Coward, highlights key Classification learning points using our marine animals as examples and explains how animals are grouped according to the way their bodies look and function. It’s a great precursor to an incursion, which can be watched with students as a quick taster and talking point in advance of our visit.

 

Primary Science ExcursionIncursions in Brisbane & Excursions to the Coast!

While our science incursions in Brisbane are a fantastic way for us to bring the sea to students who might not get the opportunity to visit the coast, we also offer the option of experiencing Classification during an excursion to the coast. Our team meet the students at a designated spot, and we explore and research the environment together before returning to our live marine animals to put things into context.

 

Classification for Younger Students

If you are also teaching younger students, another great way to prepare for our Classification science incursion is with our Classification Card Activity in which student use classification cards to work out which headings different marine animals could be classified under.

A Note About Year 7 Curriculum Science

This incursion aligns with the Australian Curriculum content description ‘Science Understanding’ under the sub strand of ‘Biological Science’ for year 7’…

Investigate the role of classification in ordering and organising the diversity of life on Earth and use and develop classification tools.

Imprinting a Love of the Ocean: Cultivating Future Environmental Advocates

At Ocean Life Education, we believe that “you protect what you know and love.” Our mission is to instil a deep connection to the ocean in children, inspiring them to become passionate advocates for marine conservation.

Our dedicated team brings this vision to life through engaging science incursions that showcase the wonders of marine environments. We aim to create memorable experiences filled with hands-on learning and exploration. By sharing our enthusiasm and knowledge, we strive to spark a lifelong appreciation for the ocean in every child we reach.

Find out more about year 7 science incursions in Brisbane.

Year 3 – Life Cycles

Year 1 – Habitats

Our Primary Incursions

Here’s a link to our other news