Our Local Area – KS1 Geography Unit (8 Outstanding Lessons)
This fully resourced Key Stage 1 geography unit focuses on pupils’ understanding of their local area through fieldwork, map skills, and place knowledge. Designed for Year 1 and 2, the unit introduces key geographical vocabulary and concepts while encouraging pupils to observe, describe, and represent their surroundings.
What’s Included?
✔ 8 detailed lesson plans
✔ 8 PowerPoint presentations (one per lesson)
✔ 38 printable worksheets, answer sheets and activity resources
Overview
★ Lesson 1: Observing our school environment
Pupils take part in a sensory walk and record features of their school grounds.
★ Lesson 2: What is near and far?
Children discuss their journey to school and sort places by proximity.
★ Lesson 3: What makes our area special?
Focus on local landmarks and descriptive writing using visual prompts.
★ Lesson 4: Homes and jobs in our community
Pupils identify different types of housing and discuss local occupations.
★ Lesson 5: Mapping our classroom and school
Children practise spatial awareness and use directional language.
★ Lesson 6: Creating a map of our local area
Pupils design symbols and build a simple map with a key.
★ Lesson 7: Fieldwork visit to a green space
Includes route planning, landmark spotting, and photo sequencing.
★ Lesson 8: Improving our area and presenting findings
Children suggest improvements and present a collaborative map.
Why is this a great unit?
✔ Designed for KS1 geography curriculum
✔ Supports fieldwork and observational skills
✔ Includes vocabulary development and visual resources
✔ Suitable for whole class, small group, or individual tasks
Ideal for:
KS1 geography | Year 1 local area topic | fieldwork and map skills | whole-school curriculum planning | outstanding geography lessons | elementary geography | grade 1 geography
Search tags: KS1 geography | Our Local Area | Year 1 lesson plan | fieldwork activities | map skills KS1 | outstanding geography unit | local landmarks | primary geography planning | geography PowerPoint KS1 | editable worksheets KS1
