‘The study of geography is about more than just memorizing places on a map. It's about understanding the complexity of our world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exists across continents. And in the end, it's about using all that knowledge to help bridge divides and bring people together.’ Barack Obama
Intent:
At Hugh Joicey School, our Geography curriculum is designed to develop children’s curiosity and fascination about the world and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Children 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. We are committed to providing children with opportunities to investigate and make enquiries about their local area so that they can develop a real sense of who they are, their heritage and what makes our local area unique and special.
Through high quality teaching, we develop the following essential characteristics of geographers: an excellent knowledge of where places are and what they are like, both in Britain and the wider world; a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which places are interdependent and interconnected; an extensive base of geographical knowledge and vocabulary; fluency in complex, geographical enquiry and the ability to apply questioning skills, as well as effective presentation techniques; the ability to reach clear conclusions and explain their findings; excellent fieldwork skills as well as other geographical aptitudes and techniques; the ability to express well-balanced opinions, rooted in very good knowledge and understanding about current issues in society and the environment; a genuine interest in the subject and a real sense of curiosity about the world and the people who live on it.
Implementation:
At Hugh Joicey, we follow Kapow Primary’s Geography scheme of work. This aims to inspire pupils to become curious and explorative thinkers with a diverse knowledge of the world; in other words, to ‘think like a geographer’.
We want pupils to develop the confidence to question and observe places, measure and record necessary data in various ways, and analyse and present their findings.
Through our scheme of work, we aim to build an awareness of how Geography shapes our lives at multiple scales and over time. We hope to encourage pupils to become resourceful, active citizens who will have the skills to contribute to and improve the world around them.
Our scheme encourages:
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 terms and vocabulary.
Impact:
As a result of our ambitious and engaging curriculum, our children are excited by the learning in Geography. They can talk about the subject in depth, using geographical vocabulary and accuracy in the concepts they understand. This is setting them up for an excellent understanding of Geography for their journey through education. Our Geography curriculum plays a key role in our celebration of our wonderful local context and our drive to make our children aware of the diverse wider world.
