Investigating Ecosystems

This section provides resources which can be used as starting points for studying the effects of human activity on ecosystems. It presents an overview of some basic concepts in ecology in order to understand sustainable development and the impact of humans on the environment. Internet links are provided to useful information at websites of the Australian government, environmental and educational organisations. A simple ecosystem investigation and report on a local environmental problem are modeled to provide ideas and frameworks that students can adapt for their own use.

Introduction to ecology Ecosystems Cell processes Food and energy Constructing a food web Cave food web Bio-geochemical cycles Comparing ecosystems Sustainable development Environmental concerns Concepts Ecological sustainability and ESD ESD in Australia Studying an ecosystem Sampling Field study Comparing abundance of Ulva Photographs of Ulva abundance Photographs of data collection locations Map of data collection locations Answers to questions Simple model investigation Generalised food web for leaf litter Graphs Comparing ecosystems Working scientifically A Local Environmental Problem Choosing a problem Case study Defining the problem:(1) causes Defining the problem: (2) consequences and outcomes Analysis Ecological comparison Discussion and Action Plan Writing your report

Nature of Australia
This section links to the Feral bird survey	The changing Australian landscape The Feral bird survey

Environmental Issues
This section can be used as a starting point for studying the environmental issues listed.	Biodiversity Introduction to biodiversity Biodiversity investigation Oceanic ecosystems Introduction Ecosystem example Oceans and climate Economic aspects Ocean management Report

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