For schools with mixed age classes, we have adapted the scheme so that the Year 3 and Year 4 blocks can be used on a two-year cycle. In the first year of the cycle, all pupils in Year 3 and 4 will follow the Cycle A blocks of lessons.
In the second year, all pupils in Year 3 and 4 will follow the Cycle B blocks of lessons. This ensures that children do not repeat any of the blocks during KS2.
Click here to get an overview of the unit outcomes.
This engaging and comprehensive geography unit introduces pupils in Years 3 and 4 to the key concepts of settlements and land use. Aligned with the National Curriculum, this unit encourages pupils to explore how and why settlements develop, how land is used in different areas, and the factors influencing these decisions.
Through a series of structured lessons, pupils will investigate different types of settlements, from villages and towns to cities, and compare their characteristics. They will explore the various ways land is used in urban and rural settings, considering factors such as agriculture, housing, industry, and transportation. Pupils will also examine historical changes in settlement patterns and discuss how human and physical geography influence land use.
This unit supports key National Curriculum objectives, enabling pupils to:
Develop their geographical enquiry skills by asking and answering questions using a range of sources
The lessons are designed to be interactive and enquiry-based, allowing pupils to explore geographical concepts through hands-on activities, group discussions, and independent research. Pupils will use a range of geographical resources, including maps and aerial photographs, to develop their understanding of settlements and land use. They will also engage in fieldwork activities, where possible, to observe land use patterns in their local area.
This unit includes a range of differentiated resources to support pupils of all abilities. Carefully structured tasks and engaging visuals ensure that all pupils can access the content while being challenged to deepen their understanding. Opportunities for cross-curricular learning are embedded throughout the unit, with links to history, science, and English.
By the end of the unit, pupils will have a well-rounded understanding of settlements and land use, including how human activity shapes the environment. They will be able to discuss different types of settlements, explain how land use varies between urban and rural areas, and demonstrate their learning through maps, presentations, and written work. This unit lays the foundation for further geographical studies and helps pupils develop a keen interest in the world around them.
