Geography no longer involves learning long lists of facts about sheep farming in Australia, or pig production in Denmark. However, the subject does have a distinctive body of knowledge about people, places and environments.
For example, the Programme of Study lists examples of significant locations to learn from key stage 2 onwards.
Quizzes are an excellent way to acquire this knowledge. They can be used at any time, for example:
* as an introduction to a topic - a good way to establish what’s known * as revision * to refocus a lesson * as homework, with pupils preparing questions to ask classmates Geography teachers have their own favourites. Global Bingo, Geographical Pictionary and Who Wants 2p a Millionaire (the cash prize is a great motivator) have all been seen in geography classrooms.
Quizzes can be organised so that pupils’ weaknesses are not exposed, but there is nothing wrong in providing an activity that some can shine at. Allegedly, boys enjoy quizzes more than girls but my best quiz team included a girl who went on to captain her college on University Challenge.
The Geographical Association’s WorldWise Quiz has run since the early 80s, with hundreds of schools taking part every year. This year’s heats begin in OctoberNovember.
And my favourite quiz question of all time? “Is Mount Everest highest enough?” _ it’s never failed to stump even the most knowledgeable student.
