Minecraft Eco‑detectives excursion

Dubbo

Science

Geography

Technologies

English

Summary

S2 - S3 - STEM
Use Minecraft to investigate ecosystems, boost biodiversity and connect digital gameplay with real conservation learning.

Things to know

Book this workshop

Stage
Stage 2 - Stage 3
Learning areas
Indigenous perspectives, HSIE
Duration
90 minutes
Cost
$14.00 per student for NSW Government Schools, or $16.00 per student for non-NSW Government Schools.
Inclusions
Includes workshop session, learning resource and Zoo entry.

Workshop overview

Balance ecosystems, boost biodiversity and explore native species from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand with Eco‑Detectives—now at Taronga Western Plains Zoo! This immersive Minecraft Education program blends digital learning with real‑world conservation science, providing students with an engaging experience that strengthens inquiry, problem‑solving and creative thinking. Technical Requirements

Each student will need:

A device with internet access
Minecraft Education installed
Their school email address & password
A fully charged device

Important:

Please confirm device compatibility and login access before the excursion.
Device loans may be available—check when booking.
Minecraft Education is free for NSW government school students and teachers.

Schools with a Microsoft 365 licence already have access.
Hosted in the Armati Education Centre and facilitated by Zoo Education Officers, students work through Minecraft challenges and a dedicated workbook as they investigate food webs, habitat health and species needs. Throughout the session, learners also meet some of the Zoo’s education animals, making meaningful connections between the digital environment and the living world around them.

Students take on the role of Eco Detectives, applying scientific knowledge and sustainability concepts to restore biodiversity within the game and reflect on real‑world environmental issues. Learners track their progress using the Eco Detectives Reflection Portfolio, supporting deeper analysis before, during and after gameplay.

This is a text‑rich experience; students who need reading support can use the Immersive Reader tool within Minecraft Education.

Learning outcomes

Stage: Stage 2, Stage 3

Outcomes

Content

English

EN3-VOCAB-01 - extends Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary through interacting, wide reading and writing, morphological analysis and generating precise definitions for specific contexts.
EN3-CWT-01 - plans, creates and revises written texts for multiple purposes and audiences through selection of text features, sentence-level grammar, punctuation and word-level language.
EN3-OLC-01 - communicates to wide audiences with social and cultural awareness, by interacting and presenting, and by analysing and evaluating for understanding.

Environmental Awareness

Develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues, such as biodiversity, pollution, and learn about Australian and New Zealand animals by reflecting on how these issues are represented in Eco Detectives and how they can be addressed in real life.

Problem-Solving Skills

Enhance problem-solving skills by reflecting on challenges faced in the game, such as resource management or ecosystem restoration, and proposing creative solutions that can be applied both in the game and in real-world environmental scenarios.

Geography

GE3-1 - describes the diverse features and characteristics of places and environments.

Science & Technology

ST3-3DP-T - defines problems, and designs, modifies and follows algorithms to develop solutions (develop solutions through trialling and refining using iterations).

Cross-Curriculum Priorities
Sustainability Futures (FS), Sustainability Design (SD)

SF2 - Sustainable futures require individuals to seek information, identify solutions, reflect on and evaluate past actions, and collaborate with and influence others as they work towards a desired change.
SD3 – Sustainable design requires an awareness of place, past practices, research and technological developments, and balanced judgments based on project environmental, social and economic impacts.

Taronga Education is dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible learning experiences for all students. Our aim is to support every student’s participation and engagement in our workshops, and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments for your students. Please contact our education team with any queries you might have.

Download the learning resource for this workshop.

Download resource