It is during this critical stage that children will make their choices for the future. Geography field trips can provide the inspiration which convinces them that geography is what they want to do!
Key Stage 3 geography programmes are fixed length courses with clearly stated outcomes that enable teachers to quickly and easily book field trips, safe in the knowledge that the field trip will be directly related to work taught in the classroom and will contribute to enhancing the geography curriculum. Each geography programme can be adapted to suit year 7 groups as well as older pupils (years 8 + 9).
As well as covering specific elements of the geography curriculum all field trips also place a strong emphasis on developing personal confidence and team-building skills and an opportunity to consider aspects of Citizenship.
Geography fieldwork in the Gredos
See also our Cross Curricular options at KS3, which combine fun, adventure and exploration with discovery, and conservation of wild places.
Sample programme Geography KS3
3 day programme
Sample programme Cross Curricular KS3 (Geography&Adventure)
Presentation + PDF File
Units for Geography Key Stage 3
Click on every unit to Find out more
PHYSICAL
- Geology KS3
This unit involves the study of weathering on granite scenery. Examples of exfoliation, freeze/thaw, pressure release are examined as well as chemical and biological weathering. Processes of weathering can be contrasted with the effects of erosion, hydraulic action, abrasion etc. in the valley of the Valdeascas where there are excellent examples of waterfalls,rapids, potholes etc.
- Geology KS3
Weathering erosion and Granite scenery
Weathering: Physical
Chemical
Biological
Erosion: Abrasion
Hydraulic action
- River processes KS3
An investigation into a meander and how far it conforms to textbook theory is an option at this level, or a comparison between a meandering reach of stream and a straight reach. Simple downstream changes can also be investigated. An investigation into levels of pollution in differing environments is also possible
- River management KS3
A walk along the Tormes valley reveals the changes that have and are taking place to the management of the river. A number of old mills (sawmills and flour mills) can be seen and the way in which gravity irrigation channels have been constructed to try and maintain pastures over the summer drought.. The change of economy towards tourism is evidenced in terms of riverside summer camps.
- Biogeography: 4 Ecosystems studies KS3
Contrasting ecosystems can be investigated in terms of simple investigations of species diversity, soils, micro-climates, etc.
- Glacial studies KS3
Investigation of landform features of erosion and deposition in the Gredos mountains.
- Meteorology KS3
The Centre has its own weather station. We also serve as a collecting station for Spain's central meteorological centre. Students can see the old and the new methods of information collection. We also have records of the climate for the last few years.
HUMAN
- Rural settlement KS3
Comparison of two villages. One village is on the main road and has been affected by growth in the tourist industry. The other is more remote and has been less affected by tourism and retains more of its agricultural heritage.
- Urban settlement KS3
City of Avila: Delineation of CBD
A study of the CBD of Avila is possible similar to that offered for A and AS level but adapted to the needs of your students.
- Impact of Tourism KS3
Visitor pressure / honey-pot effects
An investigation into a honey pot location and the effects of tourism such as footpath erosion within a glaciated highland area can be undertaken. This can also be combined with a study of the rocks and the landforms of the area.
- Farming KS3
Interviews: input/output diagram
The area has a tradition of pastoral farming with transhumance, but there are changes taking place. Students can investigate the nature of farming in the area and consider the reasons for past, present and future problems.
- Renewable energies KS3
