### Lesson Plan: Basic Geography (Local Area)
#### Reception (Ages 4-5)
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**Lesson Title:** Exploring Our Local Area
**Subject:** Social Studies
**Duration:** 45 minutes
**Objective:**
- To introduce students to the concept of geography and familiarize them with their local surroundings.
- To help students identify key places and features in their local area.
**Materials Needed:**
- Large map of the local area (with prominent landmarks)
- A simple globe or world map
- Pictures of local landmarks
- Crayons, markers, or coloured pencils
- Worksheets with images of local landmarks and simple questions
- A storybook about a local journey or adventure (optional)
**Learning Outcomes:**
- Students will be able to identify key locations within their local area.
- Students will begin to understand what maps represent.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to share information about their local environment.
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### Lesson Activities
**1. Introduction (10 minutes)**
- **Welcome and Circle Time:** Begin by gathering the students in a circle. Start with a brief discussion about what geography means. Explain that geography is the study of places around us.
- **Story Time (Optional):** Read a short story about a journey or adventure in a familiar local area. This will help set the context and engage their imagination.
**2. Large Group Activity (10 minutes)**
- **Introduction to the Map and Globe:** Show the students a globe and a world map, then zoom in on a large map of their local area. Point out the school and other familiar places (e.g., parks, libraries, shops).
- **Discussion:** Ask the students to name places they know in their neighbourhood. Encourage them to share their experiences or stories about these places.
**3. Guided Practice (10 minutes)**
- **Landmark Matching Activity:** Hand out worksheets with images of local landmarks. Next to each image, provide a corresponding blank spot for drawing or pasting.
- **Activity:** Students will draw or paste pictures of landmarks from the given images, and then try to match the pictures to their names or locations on a simplified map outline.
**4. Small Group Activity (10 minutes)**
- **Map Creation:** Divide the class into small groups. Give each group a large sheet of paper and various drawing materials. Have them create a simple map representing their local area, including their favourite places.
- **Teacher Assistance:** Move from group to group, offering assistance and encouraging students to collaborate and communicate their ideas.
**5. Sharing and Reflection (5 minutes)**
- **Show and Tell:** Invite each group to present their map to the class. Encourage them to explain what places they included and why those places are important to them.
- **Reflective Questions:** Ask the class questions like, "What new place did you learn about today?" or "Why is our local area special?"
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### Assessment:
- **Observation:** Monitor student participation during discussions and activities. Look for engagement and understanding of the local area and its features.
- **Worksheets:** Check the completed worksheets to see if students correctly matched the images of local landmarks.
- **Map Presentations:** Evaluate each group’s map for creativity, accuracy, and their ability to explain their choices.
### Extension Activities:
- **Field Trip:** Arrange a short walking trip around the local area to see the landmarks discussed.
- **Guest Speaker:** Invite a local community member (e.g., a librarian, shopkeeper) to talk about their role in the local area.
**Notes for Teacher:**
- Be mindful of students' individual backgrounds and experiences with different parts of the local area.
- Encourage every student to participate, ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Adapt the lesson based on time available and student needs, extending or shortening activities as required.
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By the end of this lesson, Reception students should have a basic understanding of their local surroundings and feel more connected to their immediate geographical environment.