Exploring the Nardoo   Grades 8-12

Explore the complex ecosystem of the Nardoo River from the comfort of your classroom. Using Exploring the Nardoo, students will be asked to conduct investigations on a simulated river, the Nardoo, and then report their findings by writing newspaper articles, hosting class discussions, writing reports, or preparing multimedia presentations.

The Nardoo River, and its associated investigations, span 4 physical regions and 4 time periods — allowing students to compare and contrast historical data with future projections. One click of the mouse brings them to the river in its pristine condition (1900s)… another click brings them to the same section in the 1990s. Now students can note ecological differences; the impact of urbanization, farming, and industry; changes in water quality and chemical composition; and the evolution of fauna and flora.

The investigations are thorough. Students are asked to: take physical measurements; analyze data using powerful simulators; record the evolving nature of local fauna and flora; access TV, radio, and newspaper archives for relevant information. They will then be directed to the Water Research Center to utilize reference materials and seek the assistance of experienced mentors.

The Curriculum Guide provides you with lessons and assessments. The lessons do not always rely on use of the computer. Worksheets, lab activities, and field trips are all incorporated into the lessons. You will also find correlations to the Standards, and cross-curricula connections spanning Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Science.

Developed by the Interactive Multimedia
Learning Laboratory and the Faculty of
Education, University of Wollongong, Australia

An investigation in progress along a heavily
farmed and irrigated region of the river.

The Research Center is where your
investigations begin. It provides guidance
and a robust collection of resources.

The "Blue Green Algae" Simulator.

The PDA where media sources, water
samples and notes are collected.