Intertidal Food Webs and Classification

Program Overview

The intertidal platform of Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary is home to a variety of algal and invertebrate species.  Students will have the opportunity to observe the characteristics of these organisms and discover how such features are used to classify species.  Students will be introduced to the use of dichotomous keys and hierarchical systems of classification.

The relationships between organisms on the intertidal platform will also be highlighted by constructing a food web.  Observations of human activities within the marine sanctuary will demonstrate to students how fragile food webs can easily be impacted by our actions.

Program Inclusions

Your program includes:

• Overview of Victoria’s Marine National Parks systems and the role they play in the protection of Victoria’s marine biodiversity.
• Introduction to the physical characteristics and organisms of the intertidal zone.
• Discussion of the importance of classification and an introduction to classifying organisms using hierarchical systems.
• Examination of specimens to identify classification characteristics of marine invertebrate phyla.
• Field observation of the intertidal zone, including identification of common algal species using a dichotomous key.
• Construction of an intertidal food web and examination of relationships between organisms within the intertidal zone.
• Observation of human activities within the marine sanctuary and discussion of potential impacts on marine ecosystems and species relationships.

Restrictions: Delivery of the program is tide dependent.  Please provide alternative dates that spread across at least two weeks.

 Prior Knowledge required: Some understanding of trophic levels and food webs.  Familiarity in the use of dichotomous keys, species identification charts and scientific nomenclature.

Equipment needed: A copy of workbook, clipboard and pencil per student. Appropriate clothing and footwear (long sleeve top, long pants, jacket, hat/beanie, soft-soled shoes e.g. runners).

Equipment supplied by Gould League: Dichotomous keys, species identification charts.

Victorian Curriculum Links

🔬 Biological Sciences (Science Understanding)
VC2S8U03 — Classification systems organise biological diversity
Students classify intertidal organisms into major taxonomic groups using observable features (e.g., molluscs, echinoderms, crustaceans). Program alignment: Rockpool species ID, dichotomous keys, structural features.
VC2S8U04 — Matter and energy flow through ecosystems; food webs model these relationships
Students construct and analyse food webs showing predator–prey relationships, trophic levels, and impacts of environmental change. Program alignment: Intertidal food webs, keystone species, human impacts (trampling, pollution).
🧪 Science Inquiry Skills
VC2S8I03 — Select and use equipment to generate and record data
Students collect field data (species counts, zonation observations) using quadrats, transects, and digital tools.
VC2S8I04 — Organise and process data using tables, graphs, keys, models
Students organise species data, construct food webs, and use classification keys.
VC2S8I05 — Analyse patterns and relationships in data
Students identify patterns in species distribution, adaptations, and food‑web stability.
🌏 Science as a Human Endeavour
VC2S8H01 — Scientific knowledge changes with new evidence
Rockpool ecology demonstrates how new marine research reshapes conservation decisions.
VC2S8H02 — Science informs solutions to contemporary issues
Links to marine sanctuary management, stormwater pollution, and biodiversity protection.

The Victorian Curriculum F-10 content elements are © VCAA, reproduced by permission. Victorian Curriculum F-10 elements accurate at time of publication. The VCAA does not endorse or make any warranties regarding this resource. The Victorian Curriculum  F-10 and related content can be accessed directly at the VCAA website.