Miss Shaw, Head of Geography, gives an update from her department including why model-making is a creative and inspiring way for pupils to learn about Geography.

Model-making is a creative and inspiring way for pupils to learn about Geography. Constructing a 3D model helps pupils to visualise features, describe processes and develop their knowledge of subject specific vocabulary. Models are also fantastic at showing changes over time; in the classroom, we regularly use playdo to show changes, for example in landforms due to erosional processes in rivers or at the coast. The physical act of making a model also helps develop skills beyond the subject, including planning, communication and reflection. Moreover, pupils find it fun and the enthusiasm it fosters supports our pupils in making excellent progress. 

I reported earlier in the year on the fantastic models that our Year 7 and 8 Geographers had made to support their learning of coastal landforms and compass directions. I wanted to use this opportunity to share with you more of the models our pupils have created over the last term. 

In Year 10 pupils have been studying Hazardous Environments and learning about volcanoes. They were asked to make a labelled 3D model to help them revise the features of the volcano.  

Lucy S – Created her model on Minecraft and then added additional details and labels. 

In Year 7 pupils have been studying Rivers and Flooding. They were asked to make a 3D model of a river channel, to help them revise the landforms you might find as you travel downstream.  

 Seb B – Adapted his Warhammer scenery to create a series of river landforms 

Cecily C- Used modelling clay and icing to create her all in one river model

 If you are looking for inspiration for the summer holidays, 3D Geography offers lots of ideas of Geography models that pupils can make to develop their understanding of the subject, whilst having fun. https://www.3dgeography.co.uk/geography-models  

Miss Fleur-Estelle Shaw
Head of Geography