Geography

By the end of Reception, children will be able to: 

• Explore the natural world around them, making observations and drawing pictures of animals and plants; 

• Know some similarities and differences between the natural world around them and contrasting environments, drawing on their experiences and what has been read in class;

• Understand some important processes and changes in the natural world around them, including the seasons and changing states of matter. 

• Describe their immediate environment using knowledge from observation, discussion, stories, non-fiction texts, and maps; 

• Know some similarities and differences between different religious and cultural communities in this country, drawing on their experiences and what has been read in class; 

• Explain some similarities and differences between life in this country and life in other countries, drawing on knowledge from stories, non-fiction texts and, when appropriate, maps. 

Our children will become geographers by understanding these ‘Threshold concepts’ in KS1: 

Threshold concepts

●  Investigate places: This concept involves understanding the geographical location of places and their human and physical features

 ● Investigate patterns: This concept involves understanding the relationship between the physical features of places and the human activity within them and the appreciation of how the world's natural resources are used and transported.

 ● Communicate geographically: This concept involves understanding geographical representations, vocabulary and techniques.

In KS1, children will do the following:

● Investigate the world's continents and oceans.

● Investigate the countries and capitals of the United Kingdom.

●Compare and contrast a small area of the United Kingdom with that of a non-European country.

● Explore the weather and climate in the United Kingdom and around the world.

● Use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to and describe key physical and human features of locations.

● Use world maps, atlases, and globes.

● Use simple compass directions.

● Use aerial photographs.

● Use fieldwork and observation skills.

To nurture our children into becoming skilled geographers, we have designed a geography curriculum that builds on prior knowledge and skills while fostering meaningful cross-curricular connections. Our carefully selected themes spark curiosity and align with topics that children already have some familiarity with. Recognising that some of our children have moved from Africa, we have included an in-depth exploration of the African continent to reflect their experiences and broaden all childrens' global awareness. Our curriculum is thoughtfully structured to provide inspiring and enriching learning opportunities, deepening children's understanding and equipping them with the essential skills to excel as geographers.

Concepts children will learn about: