Geography Curriculum Intent
Geography is a subject which is full of excitement and dynamism that helps us to better understand the world, its people, places and environments- and the interactions between them. Geography also helps us understand how and why places are changing and to help us better imagine, predict and work towards likely and preferred futures. Underpinning all of this is a strong spatial component that deepens our understanding of what places are like, why and how they are connected and the importance of location.
In Geography we aim to develop in our children:
• An excellent knowledge of where places are and what they are like.
• An excellent understanding of the ways in which places are interdependent and interconnected and how much human and physical environments are interrelated.
• An extensive base of geographical knowledge and vocabulary.
• Fluency in complex, geographical enquiry and the ability to apply questioning skills and use effective analytical and presentational techniques.
• The ability to reach clear conclusions and develop a reasoned argument to explain findings.
• Significant levels of originality, imagination or creativity as shown in interpretations and representations of the subject matter.
• Highly developed and frequently utilised fieldwork and other geographical skills and techniques.
• A passion for and commitment to the subject, and a real sense of curiosity to find out about the world and the people who live there.
• The ability to express well-balanced opinions, rooted in very good knowledge and understanding about current and contemporary issues in society and the environment.
Geography Implementation
Planning and Resources
Geography is taught through a thematic approach. Our long term and medium-term plans map out the themes covered each term for the EYFS (Understanding the World) and each key stage. These plans define what we will teach and ensure an appropriate balance of work across each term. The implementation of Geography will depend on the unit each term or half term for different year groups. Geography objectives are divided up between the different themes to make the children’s learning relevant. We always endeavour to link the Geography teaching to our locality and make it relevant to the children.
Lesson Structure/Key Elements
Lessons are taught in a variety of ways depending on the unit at the time. Some lessons may be blocked together if the geography learning is being linked to another subject, and at such times the lessons may run across several afternoon sessions in a week. The implementation of the lessons will depend on the theme and year group. The Geography objectives have been split between each of the themes across the year, to make the children’s learning relevant and interesting. The lessons are carefully planned to engage and excite all of our learners.
Geography Impact
Marking
Marking and feedback is often done with the children in class. Comments may be added to the children’s work at points throughout the unit when the teacher judges it to be beneficial.
Assessment
Assessment is ongoing to check understanding and ensure progress is being made. Assessment is based on questioning and verbal discussion as well as the children’s recorded work. Our progression of skills ensures that children are building on previous learning and not learning episodically. End points are used as an indicator to work towards. Children are made aware of these in their book. Regular quick quizzes and recaps of previous learning help teachers plan and assess where children are at.