Geography

Intent

 

Geography is the study of places, people, nature and the effect of mankind. It is an inspirational subject which should foster enthusiasm and a passion for learning. Geography is, by nature, an investigative subject, which we aim to encourage and develop across all age ranges.

Our view of Geography at Aldeburgh is that through investigation and enquiry, children develop an understanding of concepts, knowledge and skills.

 

Whilst the importance of geographical knowledge is recognised, we also wish to enable children to become lifelong geographers who have the skills and attitudes to continue to appreciate the world around them.

Implementation

 

The long-term plans, which we use at Aldeburgh Primary School in Key Stages One and Two, show a sequence in the way in which geography is taught from Class 1 to Class 4. The use of a two-year rolling programme of planning, means that the geography coverage can be ensured. Medium-term planning illustrates the objectives which will be covered during a geography topic, and also serves to demonstrate the core knowledge, skills and understanding being taught. Such knowledge and skills show appropriate progression with age, and also a gradual expansion from learning about the local area, to progressing towards study of the United Kingdom, Europe and the rest of the world.

 

During the course of a geography unit, new vocabulary is taught, as well as building upon prior word comprehension. This is to help deepen children’s grasp of different geographical concepts, such as ‘climate zones’, for instance. Teachers regularly incorporate time for discussion, which fosters an attitude of enquiry and encourages both the asking and answering of questions about geography.

 

We use a bank of relevant and varied resources, including books, maps and pictorial evidence, to enhance the geography curriculum. As well as the use of atlases and other physical resources, geography knowledge is gained via online resources, such as Digimaps.

 

Enrichment of the curriculum takes place through practical geographical visits, such as to Minsmere Nature reserve.