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