Most students have some understanding that many animals in Australia are found nowhere else in the world. This unit allows students to explore the reasons why one group of these animals, the amazing marsupials, which are born still in an embryonic state, are so special. Students will be encouraged to pursue research projects and to understand the complex world of animal and habitat adaptation. Students will study a variety of marsupial creatures in some detail.

Students will learn:

• Why marsupials are such a special group of animals
• To expand their scientific vocabulary using words and terms for concepts such as life cycles and habitat adaptation
• To compare and contrast similarities and differences between groups of Australian animal
• To conduct research investigations and learn to collect and record relevant data
• Fundamental movement skills

Learning Area Focus

• History
• English
• Science
• The Arts
• Health and Physical Education