Link it! Prior knowledge - South America - Year 5

When preparing for a lesson on South America in Year 5, it's important to tap into what the children already know about the continent. Many students will be familiar with South America through the lens of popular culture and current affairs. For instance, they might associate the continent with its contribution to the world of football, with many famous footballers hailing from South American countries. Brazil, in particular, is often recognised for a multitude of reasons, including its vibrant culture and significant role in world events. The Argentine Tango is another cultural reference that some children might be aware of, providing a glimpse into the rich traditions of Argentina. Additionally, certain stereotypes or notable features of countries like Bolivia, known for its traditional bowler hats, and Colombia, often mentioned in the context of its past drug trade issues, may have been encountered by the students. This prior knowledge should be documented in the 'Prior Knowledge' section of the Knowledge Organiser for this unit, helping to build a foundation for further learning.

The 'LINK IT!' activity is designed to make connections between what the children already know about South America and the new information they will learn in the lesson. This can be done by relating the topic to other subjects, such as geography's focus on physical features and history's exploration of cultural developments, or even personal experiences, such as family heritage or media exposure. By engaging with these links, students can deepen their understanding of South America's main features and how they relate to the wider world. This approach not only enriches their learning experience but also encourages them to see the relevance of their existing knowledge in a broader educational context.