Leaving Certificate Geography
A Local Pollution study, 1day
2017 Topic: ‘Geographical Investigation 2017 Option 2: Freshwater pollution study.’
This session links with Core Unit 3 (Geographical Investigation and Skills) and will cover all
four stages of the geographical investigation. Students will investigate the characteristics of
the Sillees river basin to determine possible causes of pollution, for example mapping local
land uses. They will then compare two sites on the river, examining the main pollution
indicators such as freshwater invertebrates and other chemical factors such as oxygen
content and pH. Students will also be provided with our investigation booklet, designed to
guide them through the process of completing their report.
For alternative Leaving Certificate courses, please visit:
http://www.field-studies-council.org/outdoorclassroom
Leaving Certificate Geography
A Local Pollution study, 1day
COURSE CONTENT
2017 Topic: ‘Geographical Investigation 2017 Option 2: Freshwater pollution study.’
This session links with Core Unit 3 (Geographical Investigation and Skills) and will cover all four stages of the
geographical investigation. Students will investigate the characteristics of the Sillees river basin to determine possible
causes of pollution, for example mapping local land uses. They will then compare two sites on the river, examining the
main pollution indicators such as freshwater invertebrates and other chemical factors such as oxygen content and pH.
Students will also be provided with our investigation booklet, designed to guide them through the process of completing
their report
Students will collect data on the following:
Task 1: River Basin Characteristics
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Land use map – students will use local land use maps to interpret to determine local differences.
Cross sectional area (width x depth) – students will usea measuring tape and a metre stick to determine channel
width and average depth.
Velocity – students will use a hydroprop flow meter to measure velocity (m/s) at three systematic intervals
across the channel.
Turbidity – students will use a turbidity meter at three points in the channel to measure the amount of
suspended sediment in the channel.
Task 2: Pollution indicators
-
BMWP – students will random sample macroinvertebrates at each site using FSC standard identification charts
and use BMWP score (indicator species) as a way of determining pollution levels.
Nitrates/Phosphates - students will use a nitrogen/phosphorus meter measure local levels of nutrient input into
the river channel.
Dissolved oxygen content – students will use an oxygen probe to measure the level of available dissolved
oxygen in the channel.
pH – students will use a pH probe to measure pH at each site as an indicator of pollution.
Temperature – students will use a temperature probe to measure the temperature of the river water at each
site as an indicator of point source thermal pollution
Students will also discuss likely outcomes of their investigation and different methods of data presentation.
Please note:
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On a standard day visit (6 hour course) students will only be able to look at likely outcomes and explanation for
Stage 4 (Results, Conclusions and Evaluation).It is not possible for the students to analyse their own results on a
standard day visit due to time constraints.
In order for the students to complete graphs and draw conclusions relating to their own results, an extended
course is required (8 hours with no meal, or 9 hours with a meal at our restaurant). This slightly longer stay will
essentially allow students to complete a first draft of their Geographical Investigation.
This course requires transport to fieldwork sites. Please ensure that your coach will be available during the day
for this.
FSC Head office, Preston Montford, Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 1HW
Tel: 01743 852100 Fax: 01743 852101 Email: [email protected] Website: www.field-studies-council.org
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
Leaving Certificate Geography
A Local Pollution study, 1day
FSC DERRYGONNELLY
Located in the unspoilt West Fermanagh countryside, FSC Derrygonnelly is 10 miles from Enniskillen, 20 miles
from Ballyshannon and only 15 miles from the Donegal coast. The River Sillees runs through the Centre
grounds and an excellent variety of habitats including rocky shores, freshwater, sand dunes, rivers, bog and
heathland are within easy reach.
DG
DG
Derrygonnelly
ROI Tel: 04868641673
NI Tel: 028 686 41673
Email: [email protected]
TO BOOK THIS COURSE, SIMPLY:
1. Choose the time of the year you would like to attend
2. Check availability online or contact FSC Derrygonnelly
For alternative Leaving Certificate courses, please visit:
http://www.field-studies-council.org/outdoorclassroom
The FSC prides itself on being flexible; the course content can be tailored to meet your needs. Alternatively,
we can work with you to create a fully bespoke course to meet your exact requirements.
FSC Head office, Preston Montford, Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 1HW
Tel: 01743 852100 Fax: 01743 852101 Email: [email protected] Website: www.field-studies-council.org
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW