Ecosystem Survey Checklist (Y7)
A first evidence set for the Year 7 local ecosystem inquiry
Ngā Whāinga Akoranga · Learning Intentions
- Record observable biotic, abiotic, and human-impact evidence at one accessible site
- Separate observations from assumptions and unanswered questions
- Follow access, safety, privacy, and locally supplied cultural guidance
Paearu Angitu · Success Criteria
- I record at least five factors or organisms and three possible interactions
- I label one observation I trust and one claim that still needs evidence
- I record the site's permission conditions without photographing people or restricted material
Ecosystem Survey Checklist
Use with the Kaitiakitanga Field Journal. Tally observations and note evidence.
| Item | Observed? | Evidence/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water clarity (clear / cloudy / algal bloom) | [ ] | |
| Native plants present (list) | [ ] | |
| Introduced/invasive species (list) | [ ] | |
| Invertebrates (e.g., kōura, kākahi, mayfly) | [ ] | |
| Birdlife (species, behaviour) | [ ] | |
| Human impacts (litter, erosion, runoff, barriers) | [ ] | |
| Evidence of restoration (planting, fencing, traps) | [ ] | |
| Access, safety, privacy, and supplied site guidance followed | [ ] |
Hononga Marautanga · Curriculum Alignment
"Ecosystems are composed of biotic and abiotic factors, which interact with each other and are important to the survival of organisms."
"Biotic factors include living or once-living organisms in the ecosystem."
Science · Phase 3 · Ecosystems. The checklist produces the observation record that later food-web and action claims must use.
Tuhia ōu whakaaro · Write Your Thoughts
Reflect on your learning. What was the most important idea? What question do you still have?
Local knowledge and authority boundary
This checklist records scientific observations. It does not authorise ākonga to infer iwi history, mahinga kai knowledge, tohu, tikanga, or the local meaning of kaitiakitanga. Use those only when the kaiako supplies a source approved by mana whenua or the kura's authorised local relationship. Record “source needed” rather than filling a cultural gap from memory, analogy, or learner disclosure.
Ngā Rauemi Tautoko · Resources already provided
Use this checklist with the Kaitiakitanga Field Journal. The kaiako still needs to choose an accessible site, confirm permission and safety, and prepare any local cultural guidance before the survey.