KS3 Geography

Curriculum Intent

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The main driver for the curriculum in KS3 is to instill a curiosity and fascination with the world around us. Specific examples are chosen to offer students experience of places that are likely to be unfamiliar, this helps to shape their ‘sense of place’. In their developing knowledge of geography, students deepen their understanding of landscapes and communities across the world.

All topics have a clear focus on vocabulary, this is explored and used to help pupils express themselves in a precise and accurate way. Other skills at the core of exceptional geography, include map reading and interpreting information that is communicated through graphs, charts, diagrams and photographs. These skills allow students to become more independent in the research they undertake and confident in the conclusions they can draw.

Lessons encourage discussion, and students learn to make links between the natural landscapes they study and the people who live in these regions. Through the examples we study, students develop a deeper knowledge of places at a range of scales, they look at individual land-forms or communities such as Durdle Door and Dharavi slum respectively. The unique geography of these places is then applied on a broader scale to help students identify patterns that can be seen worldwide. Students develop their ability to analyse problems and to consider a broad range of factors that help them to seek a solution. A fundamental aim of the learning that takes place is that students understand the complex nature of issues around the globe. Whilst we may produce summaries of the new information that has been learned, it is important to continually reflect on the complex range of factors that make places unique.

Furthermore, by understanding the processes that affect change, students know that the examples we study are dynamic and that over time changes will take place at varying degrees of pace.