Abacus Science Kit - Ecosystems Beyond Earth (Year 7, Biological Science)

Support the delivery of the Science Connections^® teaching sequence for Year 7 (Biological Science) – Ecosystems Beyond Earth, aligned with the secondary science (Australian Curriculum Version 9). This comprehensive science kit includes all the materials needed to deliver engaging, hands-on lessons that explore ecosystems, food production, and biosecurity in future space habitats.

The teaching sequence is flexible and adaptable to a range of classroom settings. Lesson plans, student science journals, and resource sheets are available as free downloads from the Science Connections® website.

Student-Centred Science Learning

Through interactive investigations and practical activities, children explore how future space settlements can produce their own food, how space ecosystems function, and why biosecurity is essential for protecting closed environments from introduced species. Students will:

• Investigate why living things need energy from food.
• Explore the challenges of measuring and comparing plant growth.
• Collect and analyse data from a variety of edible plants.
• Examine the complexity of food webs and ecosystem interactions.
• Model a biosecurity system used to detect infectious agents on imported products.

These inquiry-based activities encourage students to develop scientific skills through observation, data collection, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Design a Space Food Pod

Extend learning with a creative STEM design challenge. Students apply their understanding of ecosystems, plant growth, and food production by designing a pod capable of growing food for a future space habitat.

At the of the activity, students can work individually, in groups, or as a class to discuss their investigations, evaluate their findings, and reflect on their learning. This student-centred approach promotes scientific inquiry, collaboration, and deeper understanding.

What's Included?

In full, this product contains:

• Whiteboard
• Bicarb Soda
• Cellophane
• Rectangular Container
• Cotton Balls - Pack of 100
• Cutting Knife
• Eye Droppers - Pack of 10
• Permanent Markers
• Measuring Cup - 250mL
• Paper Plates - Pack of 50
• Safety Glasses
• Digital Scale
• Seed Raising Pots - Set of 26
• Assorted Seeds Pack
• Self Adhesive Notes
• Skewers
• Masking Tape
• Gratnells Jumbo tray with lid

Additional Information:

• Science Connections^® is a trademark of the Australian Academy of Science and is not affiliated with, nor does it endorse Abacus Educational Suppliers resources.
• Ecosystems Beyond Earth is a sequence title of the Australian Academy of Science. This teaching sequence links to Australian Curriculum Version 9 is as tabulated below: