* List the features of present-day cities and use some original sources and accounts to see if modern aspects could also be found in Victorian cities.

This could be taken further back, comparing cities of different periods and civilisations.

KS3-5

* Use the internet to research the growth of cities and how they affected people and their lives. For London, pupils will find all the details they need at www.holnet.org.uk.

* Look at PortCities, the site devoted to the maritime history and development of five UK cities. Liverpool’s site, for example, is at www.mersey-gateway.org.uk