Where are the nearest seaside resorts to our school? - Teacher notes

This lesson plan revolves around geographical skills and knowledge, with a particular emphasis on map work. Students are paired up to engage with a map of the UK, tasked with identifying the four constituent countries, their capital cities, and the three main seas that border the UK. This foundational activity serves as a precursor to the more personalised task of locating their own hometown and the nearest city or town. This exercise not only reinforces their understanding of UK geography but also helps them make connections to their personal experiences and local environment.

Building on this, the lesson plan encourages students to share and discuss their experiences of seaside resorts they have visited, further enhancing their geographical literacy by pinpointing these locations on the UK map. A secondary map is provided, highlighting 10 popular seaside resorts, which students must locate and number on their original map, integrating their knowledge with practical application. The lesson then shifts focus to holiday preferences, exploring students' favourite types of holidays—beach, city, adventure, or visiting relatives. This is complemented by a survey they conduct with their parents, aiming to gain insights into family holiday choices and to interpret the results, fostering analytical thinking. Lastly, the lesson extends to a broader scope, examining international travel by exploring countries the pupils have visited, with the option to tailor the suggested list as necessary. This holistic approach to geography education not only teaches students about locations but also invites them to reflect on why people, including themselves, enjoy being beside the seaside.