National Curriculum and Schools
Geography, Science and ICT
In consultation with school staff we can design a programme which provides evidence to satisfy the required aspects of the National Curriculum. The following is a programme previously used at Glaramara:
The River Rangers: A 3 day Key Stage 2 course based on the ‘Rivers’ theme in the Geography scheme of work.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO: A large international company called “Polly’s Paints” has applied for planning permission to build a paint factory in Seatoller. The factory would employ 50 full-time staff and 20 part-time staff. The building designs are in keeping with the local environment using slate from Honister Mine at the top of the valley.
The manufacturing process would require large volumes of water to be channelled from the local ghyll and waste products containing solvents, petrochemicals and fungicides would be released back into the river.
Activities could include:
EXPLORE: Use maps to navigate your way down the river. Use digital photography to record findings along the way with particular reference to geographical terms such as meander, bank erosion, flood plain, tributary.
DISCOVER: Ghyll Scramble . Record experiences through writing, drawing and drama.
RESEARCH: Take part in pond dipping to ascertain “Indicator Species” and complete detailed measurements of the depth, force and width of the river at different points along it. Find out how pollution of water sources can affect the flora and fauna of lakes and rivers
(Requires: ranging rod, flow metre, internet access could be useful)
INVESTIGATE: (Visit Honister Slate Mine) to find out what local employment already exists in the area.
- Has man already made an impact on the natural surroundings, is this good or bad?
- Would the industries currently thriving in the area be affected by the paint factory?
CONCLUDE: Prepare a presentation using the experiences and data collected to support or condemn the factory plans. Deliver this presentation to the local council.
