Geography

Subject support co-ordinator: Ollie Bray, Dunbar Grammar School.

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The place of geography in the curriculum

Geography is an exciting, enjoyable and yet challenging discipline. It would be hard to develop a considered view of the modern world without geography.

Geography explores the relationship between the Earth and its peoples through the study of place, space and environment. Geographers continually ask pertinent questions such as where, what, how and why?

The key aims of geography are:

• Acquire a framework of knowledge about locations, spatial distributions and places that will help pupils to set local, national and international events within a geographical context;
• Understand some of the important characteristics of the Earth’s physical systems as well as developing an appreciation of the linkage and interactions between these physical systems;
• Understand the significance of location and of distribution patterns in human activities and physical processes and to consider the relevant interactions;
• To consider the relationships and interdependence of people, places and environments throughout the world;
• Develop a sense of place;
• To be aware of the changes in social, economic and environmental systems;
• Develop an awareness and appreciation of the ethic, cultural, economic and political diversity of human society as well as a sensitivity towards the range of values and attitudes that exist;
• To provide opportunities for pupils to develop active and responsible citizenship through an awareness of their social and environmental responsibilities and consideration of the needs for sustainable development for future health and well being of the communities and the environment, locally, nationally and globally;
• Acquire the skills and techniques necessary for geographical enquiry;
• To foster an awareness of the relationship of geography to other curricular disciplines such as history, modern studies, biology and geology;
• To develop the ability to work and mix with others in a co-operative manner;
• To foster a lifelong interest in geography.

Pupils who undertake a course in geography experience relevant and worthwhile knowledge acquisition and skills development both inside and outside the classroom. As future citizens geography supports pupils to think critically about the political, economic, social and environmental issues that face the planet today.

Current developments in teaching and learning in Geography allows pupils to develop the critical skills required by today’s society as well as developing informed values and attitudes. Uniquely geography creates a bridge between humanities and the physical sciences. Geographical study can be pursued at local, regional, national, continental and global scales. The Geography subject support group aims to further the teaching of Geography and offer support to staff and students within East Lothian.