aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Natural science
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Wattle DAY first day of spring Western Australia
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Welcome Spring: Exploring Wattle Day in Western Australia

Introduction: The Buzz of Spring

Good morning, Year 7! Today, as the first day of spring in Western Australia, we are going to dive into a celebration that is as vibrant and golden as the flowers around us. Wattle Day is a unique occasion that allows us to appreciate the natural beauty of our environment and understand its significance in our culture.

A Blooming Beginning

To kick off our lesson, I want to take a moment for a scent-sational experience! Instead of starting with a textbook or a lecture, let’s engage our senses. Here’s what I have in mind:

Activity: Wattle Scavenger Hunt

What you need:

• Miniature wattle flowers (or pictures if you can’t find them)
• Notebook and pencils
• A blooming spirit!

Instructions:

1. Step Outside: As a class, venture outside into our schoolyard or nearby garden to search for wattle flowers. If there are none available, we’ll use pictures instead.
2. Observe: Take a few minutes to closely observe the flowers. What do you notice about their colour, shape, and fragrance?
3. Document: Write down your observations in your notebooks. Think about how the flowers make you feel and what memories they bring to mind.
4. Share: Gather back in the classroom and share some of your observations with your classmates.

Connecting to Wattle Day

Now that we have connected to the beautiful wattle plant, let’s discuss:

• What is Wattle Day?
• Why is it celebrated?
• What does wattle represent in our culture?

Wattle Day, occurring each year on September 1, marks not only the start of spring but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and beauty of our native flora. It encourages us to appreciate our natural surroundings and understand their importance to our identity as Australians.

Reflection & Discussion

After discussing Wattle Day, let’s reflect together. Here are a few prompts to think about:

• How do natural events, like the blooming of wattle, signify change in our lives?
• What do you think it means to celebrate a day focused on our native plants?
• How can we contribute to preserving our environment?

Conclusion: Embracing Our Natural Heritage

As we wrap up our discussion on Wattle Day, remember that this celebration is not just about flowers. It’s about embracing and protecting the natural world around us. Let's carry this spirit of respect and appreciation for our environment throughout the year, not just on Wattle Day.

Now, let’s continue our exploration into the natural sciences, armed with a renewed appreciation for the wonders that spring brings!

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This lesson will help us not only grasp the scientific aspects of plant biology but also instill a sense of stewardship for our extraordinary biodiversity in Western Australia. Ready to bloom into spring? Let's go!