Geography
Intent
The intent of Brenzett CE Primary Schools Geography provision is to inspire pupils to become curious and explorative thinkers with a diverse knowledge of the world. Our pupils learn to observe and ask questions about places, measure and record necessary data in various ways, and analyse and present their findings. Our scheme of work enables pupils to build an awareness of how Geography shapes our lives at multiple levels and over time. We support our pupils to become resourceful, active citizens who will have the skills to contribute to and improve the world around them. Our curriculum promotes:
• A strong focus on developing both geographical skills and knowledge.
• Critical thinking, with the ability to ask perceptive questions and explain and analyse evidence.
• The development of fieldwork skills across each year group.
• A deep interest and knowledge of pupils’ locality and how it differs from other areas of the world.
• A growing understanding of geographical concepts, terms and vocabulary.
Implementation
The implementation of our curriculum involves a well-structured and progressive framework that ensures full coverage of the National Curriculum. Pupils revisit several recurring knowledge domains on their journey through the school. This spiral curriculum gives pupils important opportunities to revise and build on their prior learning and allows for a more complex understanding of the subject. These knowledge domains are:
• Locational knowledge
• Place knowledge
• Human and physical geography
• Geographical skills and fieldwork
Our Geography curriculum integrates a variety of teaching strategies, including practical fieldwork, cross-curricular links, and the use of technology to enhance learning experiences. The school provides opportunities for outdoor learning and educational visits to local geographical features, enhancing pupils' understanding through real-world experiences.
Cross-curricular links are included throughout each unit of work, allowing children to make connections and apply their Geography skills to other areas of learning. Enquiry based questions form the basis for our Key stage 1 and 2 units, meaning that pupils gain a solid understanding of geographical knowledge and skills by applying them to answer enquiry questions. Children learn how to collect, interpret and represent data using geographical methodologies and make informed decisions by applying their geographical knowledge.
Lessons incorporate various teaching strategies from independent tasks to paired and group work, including practical hands-on, computer-based and collaborative tasks. Knowledge organisers for each unit support pupils in building a foundation of factual knowledge by encouraging recall of key facts and vocabulary.