VCE Education Programs
Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Plant Adaptations
Biology Unit 2 – Organisms & their Environment
Explore the diverse plant collections of the Gardens to discover many of the remarkable
adaptations that allow plants to survive in a range of different environments. Students
explore the plant collections of the Australian Rainforest Border, the Tropical Glasshouse
and the Arid Garden. Students participate in observational activities in the Gardens using
stereo microscopes.
Plant Evolution & Diversity
Biology Unit 1: Unity & Diversity; Unit 4: Continuity & Change
Take an evolutionary journey of plant diversity from liverworts to lilies. See representatives of
many of the plant phyla and their families and discover what kind of evolutionary advantages
they have developed. Students participate in observational activities in the Gardens using
stereo microscopes.
Behind the Scenes
Unit 1 – Unity and Diversity
Visit the National Herbarium of Victoria and the Gardens' Nursery Collections and discover
some fascinating botanical specimens. Learn about the work that goes on in the Herbarium
such as plant identification and its significance over the last 150 years. See how specimens
are collected, prepared, documented and mounted.
Changing Landscapes
Humanities, Outdoor & Environmental Studies ~ Unit 3
This program examines the changing landscape of Melbourne including change in attitudes
and impact of land use. Special focus is on the importance of the Yarra River and the role of
vegetation within the landscape, as well as its significance to the Kulin Nation. Students will
compare historic images of the site and propagate an indigenous plant to take home.
Working Wetlands
Environmental Studies Unit 4 - a Sustainable Water Management System
Examine the flow of stormwater and discover how it is diverted through the lakes system via
gross pollutant traps and then filtered and cleaned through Floating Treatment Wetlands
using bioremediation techniques.
Working Wetlands
Geography Unit 2- Use and Management of a local resource
Explore the management techniques used in harnessing recycled stormwater for irrigation.
Students assess the sustainability of the water recycling program and conduct fieldwork to
analyse its future success.
Session Times: 1hr 45mins program
10.15am – 12.00 noon
12.30pm – 2.15pm
Please see our web-site: http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/learn/programs/secondary-melbourne for current prices and professional development opportunities. We can also provide you with
PD a tailored to your needs.
Further information and bookings:
phone: 03 9252 2358
email: edserv@rbg.vic.gov.au
website: www.rbg.vic.gov.au/learn