Geography

Geography teaches children an understanding of places and environments. It motivates children to find out about the physical world and it should enable them to recognise the importance of sustainable development to the future of mankind. Our aim at Bede’s is to encourage pupils to value the rich and diverse school environment and to celebrate its wide catchment area both locally and globally. Pupils should be encouraged to use these resources with sensitivity, responsibility and imagination. Geography plays a vital role in developing pupils’ understanding of different attitudes, values and beliefs throughout the world. Linked to this spiritual, moral, social, environmental and cultural education.

At Bede’s staff aim to develop children’s knowledge and understanding of geography by teaching about physical and human environments and their interrelation in such a way as to assist pupils make sense of the world around them.

Given the wonderful surroundings of the Prep School, pupils attend a fortnightly Beach School, where they can study physical geography, alongside learning about the geography and history of our local area, the environment and natural sciences.

During Years 1 and 2 we will study geographical features such as the beach, cliffs, coast and forest and as well as aspects of human geography, including cities, towns and villages. By comparing a small area of the UK pupils begin to understand the similarities and differences between human and physical geography. Pupils will also become familiar with the four countries and capital cities within the United Kingdom.

We also consider the seasons and daily weather patterns in the UK, as well as the location of hot and cold areas of the world. Pupils learn to use maps, globes and atlases, as well as photographs to recognise landmarks and basic features. We also introduce pupils to compass directions and locational and directional language.

Throughout these years we undertake regular fieldwork sessions in order to understand our local environment.

What skills will my child develop?

• To ask geographical questions in order to find out aspects of living in a given location.

• To observe and to record findings

• To use and make plans, maps and globes in a range of scales.

• To use secondary sources, for example the internet, CD Roms and DVDs to enhance learning.

Hints & Tips for Home

• Get out and about to explore the local area on walks, using a map to plan journeys and follow a route.

• Many animated films for children feature a surprising amount of geographical information including Moana, the Ice Age series and Froze. If you watch these films together with your child, try discussing the geographical aspects with them.

• Write letters and exchange postcards with family members and friends in different countries to help children learn more about them.