Geography

We aim to motivate and engage children to be inspired about the world in which we live. Giving the children an awareness of the wider world will broad their interests, preparing them for life in the modern world. Children are encouraged to develop a greater knowledge and understanding about the human and physical aspects of the world, as well as their place in it. We investigate a range of places – both in Britain and abroad – to help develop their knowledge and understanding of the Earth’s physical and human processes, of people and environments. From studying a range of countries and comparing them to Britain allows our children to form a deeper understanding of how countries are different- eradicating stereotypes. We are committed to providing children with opportunities to investigate and make enquiries about their local area, so that they can develop of real sense of who they are and what makes our local area unique and special. Children will know how their actions impact on both local and world environments and what they can do in order to preserve our world for future generations.

The geography curriculum is designed to develop knowledge and skills that are progressive, as well as transferable. We follow an curriculum based on the Cornerstones topics, which aim to inspire and engage pupils.

Geography is taught throughout the year, through topics based on the Cornerstones themes. We have identified the key knowledge and skills of each topic. Careful consideration has been given to ensure challenge and progression runs smoothly throughout each year group, so this enables children to make purposeful connections.

At the beginning of each topic, children are provided with a memorable experience in order to engage and excite their curiosity. This is followed by the ‘Develop’ stage, where a range of learning objectives are addressed in order to achieve depth and breadth of the subject. The children are then given the opportunity to recall and apply their skills and knowledge throughout the ‘innovate’ stage. Each topic has opportunities for regular recapping and knowledge retrieval, in order to secure an in-depth subject knowledge. Finally, the ‘Express’ stage allows the children to share their skills and understanding.

Outcomes in books evidence a broad and balanced geography curriculum and demonstrate clear progression.

We measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:

• Assessing children’s understanding of topic linked vocabulary before and after the unit is taught
• Summative assessment of pupil discussions about their learning
• Images and videos of the children’s practical learning
• Pupil voice
• Moderation staff meetings where pupil’s books are scrutinised and there is the opportunity for a dialogue between teachers to understand their class’s work
• Marking of written work in book

Policy for Geography

Geography Knowledge and Skills Progression 

Geography Vocabulary Progression