Geography Curriculum
Intent
At Steep Church of England Primary school it is our intent for our Geography Curriculum to inspire our pupils with a fascination and curiosity about the world around them which will ignite a love of learning. The teaching of this subject will equip pupils with the knowledge and understanding of a range of diverse places, both in Britain and around the world, people and resources. Through the study of natural and human environments, as well as physical and human processes, our aim is to provide children with a sense of wonder about the world they live in and to encourage our pupils to show respect for their local, national and international environments.
We want our children to gain confidence and enjoy experiences through local fieldwork studies. We provide opportunities to investigate our local environments, through school trips, and to make enquires about the surrounding areas of our school. Our pupils are encouraged to recognise that they have a voice and to use it confidently to debate topics that they feel passionate about, for example, climate change.
As they continue on their journey of Geography, we aim to provide a deep understanding of the subject that develops alongside their geographical skills. Our aim is that our pupils go on to apply these skills across all subjects, as well as in their futures beyond Steep.
Implementation
Geography at Steep is taught on a two year cycle due to mixed classes and topic teaching is used to progress children’s knowledge and skills. Each class has a long term plan with two to three Geography based topics, which are to be covered over the year. Geography may be linked into some History topics, where appropriate, to develop children’s knowledge and understanding. It will also ensure all areas of the curriculum are covered in depth. Teachers are encouraged to consider opportunities available to use the school grounds and the local area for fieldwork to enable children to base learning on first hand experiences to enhance teaching and learning in Geography.
Children will access a range of resources to acquire learning through atlases, maps, digital technology, books and photographs. Google Earth maps and satellite view may be used initially to add a real-life context to lessons. Using a range of secondary resources to develop their knowledge and understanding is integral to their learning.
The importance of a clear understanding of the key vocabulary in Geography is recognised. Staff work hard to explain key vocabulary clearly and practically, then encourage children to use technical vocabulary accurately in order to gain confidence and precision in their work.
Impact
Pupils will have developed the geographical knowledge and skills to help them explore, navigate and understand the world around them and their place in it. As pupils progress through the school, they develop a deep knowledge, understanding and appreciation of their local environment and its place within the wider world. Regular school trips linked to the learning within the classroom provide further relevant and contextual learning.