Experiential Learning – Year 8 Geography Fieldwork

Year 8 Geography students were given the opportunity to engage with the real world to collect and analyse primary data to better understand the importance of water in our world and historically how social status can impact water accessibility. Students were encouraged to apply geographical skills and knowledge and then ask questions of their data to draw conclusions and make future recommendations. A huge thank you to Richard Crittenden for organising this fieldwork experience and the Geography teachers for facilitating the learning activities.

Brigida Zagora
Head of HSIE (Humanities and Social Sciences)

Student Reflection

On 14 August Year 8 Geography travelled to The Rocks where we gained a deeper understanding of our unit of ‘Water in the World’. The fieldwork included exploring different locations such as the Tank Stream, where we learnt about the different ways water was used in the past and how it is being used today. It was fascinating to see the differences. We also had the opportunity to go to different places like Cadmans Cottage, Macquarie Place Park and Customs House, where we participated in an interactive experience. I enjoyed going to Customs House the most as it had a model of Sydney and we could use it to locate specific places and understand the paths that water took.
Nicola Diamantopoulos

I had a really enjoyable and entertaining time where I learnt about the history of Australia’s water dating back to the arrival of the First Fleet, to the processes of modern times. The tour guides took us all around the city, stopping at old historical houses, buildings, landmarks, and even the first European park in Australia, containing a fresh water well that connects to the main stream. I absolutely loved this excursion and was very grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the history of Australia’s water whilst having an amazing time with my friends. Overall, this fieldwork was a huge success and it could not be possible without the hard work that teachers implemented during the planning and organising process.
Tiana Charbel

During my Geography field trip, I learned that poorer individuals historically lived farther from the water supply, while wealthier families had closer access. Additionally, tens of thousands of years ago, The Rocks was a pristine coastline and the home of the Gadigal people. Today, it serves as a cultural and gathering hub in the heart of Australia’s largest city. I particularly enjoyed how the tour guides vividly explained the rich history of The Rocks, enhancing our understanding by taking us to various sites for a more immersive experience.
Rachel Feng