This week, Year 8 undertook their Reflection day and Geography Excursion over the course of two days. Unfortunately, due to the unexpected weather conditions the group was unable to attend the venue for the excursion, Sydney Olympic Park. Within school grounds, Year 8, in their respective religion classes, were still able to experience hands-on activities, experiments and field sketching.

The morning and middle session of the day had Year 8 split into two separate groups, consisting of two activities. In Activity A, the group learnt about the grey mangrove trees and their adaptations that allowed them to survive in salty environments located at the Badu Wetlands at Sydney Olympic Park. Experiments were undertaken that were based around water pH, turbidity, temperature and general water quality of the mangroves. Activity B was about the history of Sydney Olympic Park and how the area manages water. In the afternoon, Year 8 constructed a mini water sustainable city.

On behalf of all the Year 8’s, I would like to show our gratitude and appreciation to the HSIE teachers for arranging an unexpected, yet pleasant two days at the last minute. Thank you for preparing these activities for us.

Bea Sualibios (Year 8)