Aims:
In year 8 we aim to continue to make sense of our complex and dynamically changing world. We aim to encourage questioning, investigation and critical thinking through geographical enquiry. Geography inspires pupils to become global citizens by exploring their own place in the world, their values and responsibilities to other people, the environment and to the sustainability of the planet.

Content:
There are a number of key concepts that underpin the study of Geography. In year 8 we focus upon the concepts of place, space and scale and human processes, environmental interaction and sustainable development. We achieve this through the process of geographical enquiry, fieldwork investigations, graphicacy and visual literacy and through developing communication.

Main topics include:

Plate tectonics - An exploration into the physical causes of and human effects of tectonic activity.

Coastal Environments - A study of the physical characteristics of some our most rapidly changing coastal environments, through understanding processes that continuously change them along with the impact upon local communities.

Industry - In our increasingly ‘shrinking world’ we explore some of the processes and issues associated with globalisation. Two main case studies are focussed upon, enhanced by school visits to both locations. Cadbury world enables us to explore the chocolate industry from source to consumption with focus on the ever changing nature of the business.  Styal mill is a historical look at the advances and changes in industry that have led to the world in which we live today.

Ecosystems - A journey into the diverse ecosystems of the world and the impact people are having on these, often fragile environments. Particular focus is paid to the tropical rainforests and the Savanna grasslands.

Assessment:
Pupils undertake end of unit assessments that take a variety of forms including tests and investigation work. Homework tasks are set regularly and an end of year exam assesses overall progress.

Extra Curricular:
Pupils are encouraged to participate in the ECO group and the fair-trade activities that frequently run in school.

Useful Websites:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/websites/11_16/site/geography.shtml - BBC Geography education site.
http://mapzone.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/mapzone/ - Some fun games to help improve map skills.
http://kids.nationalgeographic.co.uk/kids/games/geographygames/ - A range of fun Geography games.