Fish
semester 1 & 2
Fish is a Student-Led Elective. This means that some of the more experienced students do the vast majority of the teaching in the class. Students are put into small groups, 3 to 4 students in each. They are given a Class Leader who will take them through how to care for the fish in that particular section. Our fish collection is varied, from some very large native species like the Barramundi and Murray Cod down to small colourful exotic fish like Neon Tetras and Guppies. This elective will introduce students to the wide variety of fish species that are a part of the TC Fish Program and their husbandry. Together, we investigate the:
Behaviour, ecology, evolution and biodiversity of marine and freshwater organisms
Effects of human disturbance and climate change on habitats, species and communities
How to maintain a range of different captive environments for fish
A major focus of Fish is learning about the significance of aquatic environments. Each year a camp to one of these locations will occur to allow students to take their learning beyond the classroom. Lately this has been Turtle Camp, which happens each year in Term One, in the Gunbower National Park. On this camp students learn about the ecology of the local area and how human’s and feral animals have put it at risk. They look at the effects that invasive species have had on both local fish and turtle populations.
The subject also exposes students to the wonder of keeping fish and other aquatic organisms in aquaria. Fish-keeping is a fantastic way to learn more about the behaviour and the biotic and abiotic requirements of specific living organisms. For students who show aptitude and interest in fish-keeping, there are great opportunities to develop leadership and teaching skills while working with other students in our three fish rooms.
Student achievement will be measured through the completion of a range of tasks, possibly including:
Learning about all aspects of fish care while working in the TC fish rooms
Fieldwork activities working with Turtles Australia and other environmental organisations.
Participation in fish-keeping/breeding projects
Projects and presentations based on individual interests
Participation in class
*Extra-curricular fun!*
All students enrolled in the Working with Animals Program have an opportunity to apply for our three school camps. These are Farm Camp, Zoo Camp and Turtle Camp!
All students enrolled in the Working with Animals Program are welcome to attend our weekly Animals Committee Meeting, where students get to take the floor and share their ideas and proposals for changes to our practice, or to share important updates on our animals health or training progress. It is a great place to meet like-minded animal lovers.
All students enrolled in the Working with Animals Program are invited to help us plan and run exciting and fun school events. Students enjoy volunteering for a number of roles to share our amazing program with the school community. These events include our annual Animal Expo and Trivia Night to name a few!
See what all Animals electives get up to on TC Animals Instagram! Templestowe College Animals (@tc_animals) • Instagram photos and videos
