Ofsted Outstanding

Year 8 Geography

Guidance for parents

What will students be studying in Geography this year?

In Year 8 students will continue to build on the geographical skills they began to develop in Year 7 – in including descriptive and analytical writing and the presentation of geographical information.   Students in Year 8 will begin by looking Tourism for a countries economic base, focusing on aspects of sustainable management of problems which arise. Students then move on to investigate the hydrological cycle and river flow leading to an investigation of flooding both in the UK and abroad. They then move on to look at river processes and finally the geography of energy. During the course students undertake geographical enquiry work in a number of ways including a Tourism project based on a location they are familiar with and a testing of hypotheses using river data collected on a fieldtrip to the River Tillingbourne. The course also offers a number of creative opportunities to really get to grips with geographical concepts and processes.

What are the major assessments this year?

Students will complete a key assessment in each topic over the course of the year in both lesson time and homework, allowing them opportunities to develop and revisit key geographical skills. Assessments are reviewed yearly and are subject to change as the content  is reviewed in an ongoing process. The assessment calendar for Year 8 is available on the school website.

What will the current performance grade be based on and what do the levels mean?

The current performance grades are based on assessed work completed over the year. Oral contributions in class will also inform staff about her level of engagement with the subject.  All students are issued with passports for every new topic which contain key assessment mark schemes giving students clear criteria for each level in every piece of work.

What should my daughter do if she feels she is struggling in the subject?

She should talk to her teacher first as it could be a simple matter of misunderstanding a task or a topic. She should try and be specific about what she finds particularly challenging and the support offered may differ depending on the nature of the challenge.

How can I support my daughter in Year 8?

The best way to support your daughter is by talking to her about what she is studying in Geography and  about how she is getting on.  Students should be encouraged to complete homework in a timely manner and you might like to encourage your daughter to follow news, current affairs and watch documentaries of interest to her.

What kind of independent work should my daughter be completing?

Students will be asked to undertake research from time to time and this will be part of her homework.   A wider appreciation of the world should be encouraged as much as possible.

 Who can I contact for further advice and information?

Please feel free to contact the Head of Geography at geography@newsteadwood.co.ukif you have any queries about your daughter’s progress. 

United Learning comprises: United Learning Ltd (Registered in England No: 00018582. Charity No. 313999) UCST (Registered in England No: 2780748. Charity No. 1016538) and ULT (Registered in England No. 4439859. An Exempt Charity). Companies limited by guarantee. Registered address: United Learning, Worldwide House, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, PE3 6SB.

Financial Accountability and Freedom of Information
Website Terms, Cookies and Privacy
Policies

United Learning