Sharp Lane Primary School

Geography

Intent
At Sharp Lane, Geography inspires curiosity about the world, its environments, and the people who live in them. Children aspire to explore both physical and human geography, driven by a desire to understand how landscapes, climates, and societies interact and change over time. Our curriculum encourages pupils to believe in their ability to enquire, observe, and think critically. With commitment, they develop geographical knowledge, map skills, and a deep understanding of their local area in connection with the wider world.

Implementation
Through the National Curriculum 2014 framework, Geography at Sharp Lane:

•     Engages pupils through enquiry-led, hands-on lessons and fieldwork.
•     Begins each lesson with a key question to explore and discuss.
•     Recaps prior knowledge and builds progressively on previously taught concepts.
•     Develops skills in map reading, data collection and analysis.
•     Explores physical geography (e.g., rivers, mountains, climate) and human geography (e.g., settlements, trade, population).
•     Uses primary and secondary sources, including maps, photographs, and local data.
•     Encourages pupils to make links between their local area and global geography.
•     Promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and discussion through investigative activities.
•     Strengthens co-operation, communication, and presentation skills.
•     Use Forest School and outdoor adventurous activities to provide hands-on learning in local environments and develop practical observation and fieldwork skills.

Impact
By the time pupils leave Sharp Lane, they will:

•     Have a secure understanding of physical and human geography, preparing them for further education.
•     Be able to analyse and interpret maps, data, and geographical sources confidently.
•     Understand the impact of human activity on environments and the interconnection of global and local issues.
•     Be able to make informed observations and comparisons between their local area and other regions of the world.
•     Have developed a lasting curiosity and enjoyment of Geography through fieldwork, investigations, and engaging lessons.