Intent
We believe that geographical skills and knowledge are essential components to a broad and balanced curriculum. Geography is challenging, motivating, topical and engaging; in our diverse society, children need more than ever before to understand people and their cultures. Our geography scheme of work is structured to allow children to understand the processes of both physical and human geography and help them make sense of their world. The curriculum is designed for all pupils to succeed, building upon skills and knowledge learned at Key Stage 1 and Lower Key Stage 2, with a hands-on approach to regular investigative work.
Implementation
In this subject, we aim to teach geography as a contemporary and dynamic subject, where topics are taught not only as discreet lessons but in a cross curricular manner. As a department, we strive to use a variety of teaching and learning methods to bring geography alive. Children are encouraged to complete long-term art projects; use maps and compasses; use a wide range of ICT and work in groups, sharing ideas and presenting.
The curriculum focuses on 3 key areas within geography: geographical enquiry, locational understanding and communication. Children, in geography, enjoy both exploring geographical content but also building on key geographical skills, such as map reading and interpreting data. Geographical topics, across Key Stage 2 include: rainforests, the Newcastle Quayside, coasts and mountains. At Key Stage 3, pupils will study the following topics: locational geography, rivers, globalisation, Africa, urbanisation and weather. Wherever possible, we involve the children in ‘real’ geographical activities, e.g. research the local environment and current issues.
Impact
The children are exposed to a wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities such as educational visits and whole school topic days. More able pupils are offered additional enrichment sessions where skills are developed further.
The curriculum is designed to help develop pupils' geographical thinking throughout both key stages whilst still encouraging a love for learning – enabling them to transfer these skills to KS4.