We learned skills for collecting information to help us understand God’s wonderful world and the part we play in preserving or destroying it.
Bags packed, name badges on, groups organised, with parent helpers and teachers in tow! Laughter and chatter fill the air as we board; seatbelts clicked, engine on – we leave Wilson Campus behind for a wild encounter at Perth Zoo.
From giraffes to lions and tigers, otters and snakes, meerkats to crocodiles, elephants, and baboons – what an array to behold! Painted dogs, cheetahs, and reptiles of all kinds – we shared ideas, fun facts, both old and new, asking questions and marvelling at all we saw. So many species; we couldn’t help but marvel at God’s handiwork, each different and wonderful in its own way, perfectly reflecting His creation and care.
From the African Savannah to the Asian Rainforest, Australian Bushwalk, Reptile Encounter, and the Nocturnal House, every corner of the zoo was a treasure trove of discovery, revealing facts both fun and serious. The need to care for endangered species and their habitats became obvious as we explored, read, and chatted together. Our day served as a wonderful reminder of God’s creation; biological science and conservation go hand in hand. As caretakers of our precious world, it’s important to honour the responsibility God has given us, now and in the future.
At the zoo, we had an activity to figure out a jumble of lunchboxes. Armed with clues, we embarked on an adventure through the Asian Rainforest as junior detectives. Using what we had learned, we helped the zookeeper determine which animal needed which lunchbox. It was fun working through the clues to discover what went with whom.
The meerkats stole our hearts – mischievous and cute. We laughed at their antics, playing chase, digging, and scurrying through tunnels. We took notes in preparation for writing a report about these amazing little creatures. In Talk 4 Writing this term, we are exploring the tale of “Meerkat Mail,” and our zoo visit was a great way to prepare. We couldn’t think of a better thing to do!
Our day ended with smiles all around and a new understanding of living things and the importance of maintaining natural habitats. We learned skills for collecting information to help us understand God’s wonderful world and the part we play in preserving or destroying it. Our wild and wonderful encounters at Perth Zoo have taught us that even though we are young, we can make a difference with the choices we make. There is so much we can learn and do for our little corner of God’s creation, and we are eager to explore and have new adventures as we continue our learning journey.
Conservation Message: All animals, including us, have basic needs including food, water and shelter.
Biblical Threads
Caretaking the earth: It is important we respond to God’s call to be caretakers who carefully manage all of creation.
Pondering Creation: The world is a wondrous place, created by God for us to live in and enjoy. Students respond to His handiwork with delight and praise.
