The programme of study indicates that as pupils progress through the key stages they should learn more places, areas and landforms. Their geography pool of knowledge should be consolidated and built on through each school stage.
An understanding should be shown of how the formation of the earth has had a direct impact on the landscapes of different continents.
Much more focus will be on retaining facts, including key areas of the UK and the world. Specific attention is placed on knowing details about Africa, the Middle East, Russia and South East Asia - namely China and India. This is to do with preparing pupils for a world of emerging economies and a shifting of the balance of power.
Pupils should study specific areas in Africa and Asia using a mix of Human and Physical geography.
A large emphasis on map skills is required through the key stages. By KS3 pupils should also have experience of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and be able to use them to help analyse data.
Pupils should not only communicate their knowledge through maps, but also by writing “at length” about topics and themes. There will have to be more of a focus on extended writing, essay skills and other literacy tools in the secondary classroom.
A key area of concern will be how the balance between learning facts of regions, places and processes will work alongside learning new skills.
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