Geography

 

Curriculum intent

“The study of geography is about more than just memorising places on a map. It’s about understanding the complexity of our world.” Barack Obama.

Through Geography at Grange Community Junior School, we aim that all pupils:

  • Will develop curiosity and fascination in both their own surroundings and the wider world through the opportunities to study physical and human environments, starting in the United Kingdom and expanding to Europe and the rest of the world.
  • Will learn how to be global citizens, who have a responsibility and duty to look after our planet and to ensure its sustainability, for future generations.
  • Engage in fieldwork to allow them to have a hands-on experience and bring the subject to life. Whether it is developing map skills, measuring river statistics or undertaking questionnaires.

 

Curriculum implementation

Geography is organised into half-termly topics based around a key question or statement designed to encourage curiosity. At Grange, our geography curriculum incorporates the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum, as well as other experiences and opportunities which best meet the needs of our children.  Over the course of their time at Grange, children will undertake carefully allocated topics that cover 6 of the 7 continents around the world. To assist children in understanding and appreciating the variety of human life experiences in different environments, all topics have an element of comparison with our life in the UK. This allows for a recognition of the many similarities that exist between communities across the globe and an ability to value differences between our culture and others.

Lessons are taught with meaningful links to everyday life and where possible, make the most of current news topics. The curriculum builds on the local geography and develops to the wider world. Fieldwork is taught alongside the topics to enhance the learning for all the children. Staff make use of a range of resources to stimulate and motivate learners. The school grounds and local area are used to engage children with their environment, whilst enriching their learning.

Curriculum impact

Through our Geography curriculum children;

  • Develop curiosity and respect for the world they live in and realise they have a part to play in ensuring its future.
  • Gain an understanding the world: people, places and environments
  • Undertake fieldwork to allow them to experience geography first hand
  • Develop acceptance and tolerance of diversity