Leading Geography in Primary Schools

Welcome to the essential guide for teachers tasked with leading geography in primary schools. This guide will help you navigate the key themes and elements of the Curriculum for Geography, along with suggestions for excellent resources to support your teaching. 

Purpose of Study

Geography is a rich and diverse subject that inspires curiosity and fascination about the world and its people. Although the Geography curriculum in different countries may vary, generally the aims are to ensure that all pupils:

  • Develop knowledge of globally significant places.
  • Understand the processes that give rise to key physical and human geographical features.
  • Are competent in a range of geographical skills, including data collection, analysis, and communication.

The curriculum is usually divided into Substantive Knowledge and Disciplinary Knowledge

Substantive Knowledge usuincludes:

  • Developing contextual knowledge of significant global locations.
  • Understanding the processes behind physical and human features.
  • Acquiring geographical skills for data collection, interpretation, and communication.

Substantive knowledge refers to the content that pupils learn in geography, including facts, concepts, and theories about the world. It encompasses the key information that students need to understand physical and human geography.

Key Stage 1 (Ages 5-7)Suggested Resources:

Key Stage 2 (Ages 7-11)Suggested Resources:

Disciplinary Knowledge usually includes:

  • Locational Knowledge: Name and locate the world’s continents and oceans.
  • Place Knowledge: Understand geographical similarities and differences through studying the human and physical geography of a small area in the UK, and a contrasting non-European country.
  • Human and Physical Geography: Identify seasonal and daily weather patterns, and the location of hot and cold areas of the world.
  • National Geographic Kids - Engaging articles and interactive maps.
  • BBC Bitesize - Activities and videos tailored to Key Stage 1 geography.

KS3

  • Locational Knowledge: Locate the world’s countries, major cities, and key physical and human characteristics.
  • Place Knowledge: Compare a region of the UK with a region in a European country and a region within North or South America.
  • Human and Physical Geography: Describe and understand key aspects such as climate zones, rivers, mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
  • Ordnance Survey - Educational resources and maps.
  • RGS-IBG - Royal Geographical Society teaching resources and fieldwork ideas.
  • Locational Knowledge: Extend knowledge of the world’s major countries and their physical and human features.
  • Place Knowledge: Focus on Africa, Asia (including China and India), and Russia.
  • Human and Physical Geography: Understand weather and climate, ecosystems, the water cycle, and human geography themes like urbanisation and globalisation.

Disciplinary knowledge in geography involves understanding the methods and practices that geographers use to investigate and interpret the world. It includes skills in data collection, analysis, and the application of geographical concepts to solve problems and explain phenomena.Key Stage 1 (Ages 5-7)Suggested Resources:Key Stage 2 (Ages 7-11)Suggested Resources:Key Stage 3 (Ages 11-14)Suggested Resources:4. Implementation StrategiesDeveloping a Curriculum PlanEngaging Students5. Professional Development

  • Geographical Skills and Fieldwork: Use maps, atlases, globes, and simple compass directions; use aerial photographs and plan perspectives.
  • National Geographic Kids - Interactive maps and activities for young learners.
  • BBC Bitesize - Fieldwork and skills-focused videos and activities.
  • Geographical Skills and Fieldwork: Use maps, atlases, and digital/computer mapping; undertake fieldwork to observe, measure, and record human and physical features.
  • Ordnance Survey - Tools and activities for developing mapping skills.
  • RGS-IBG - Ideas and resources for conducting geographical fieldwork.
  • Geographical Skills and Fieldwork: Interpret Ordnance Survey maps, GIS, and undertake advanced fieldwork.
  • Start with the National Curriculum: Ensure coverage of all required content and skills.
  • Integrate Cross-curricular Links: Geography can be linked with history, science, and literacy.
  • Incorporate Fieldwork: Practical experiences bring geography to life and enhance understanding.
  • Interactive Lessons: Use technology such as interactive maps and GIS tools.
  • Project-Based Learning: Encourage students to undertake independent projects on geographical topics.
  • Field Trips: Organize visits to local geographical sites, museums, and use virtual field trips when necessary.

Continuous professional development is vital for staying updated with new teaching methods and resources. Engage in workshops, online courses, and join geography teacher communities for support and ideas.Conclusion

Leading geography in your school involves a blend of adhering to the National Curriculum, using engaging resources, and continuously seeking professional growth. By fostering a dynamic and interactive learning environment, you can inspire your students to develop a lasting interest in the world around them.

For further support, consider joining professional bodies such as the Geographical Association and the Royal Geographical Society, which offer extensive resources and networks for geography educators.

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