We have all played the game of ‘consequences’ at some time or other (he said, she said, the consequence was…). This rivers KS2 lesson uses that framework to explore the physical features and human geography of rivers.

This includes how upstream activities can impact on what happens further down.

Activities have been pitched at ages 7-9 (Lower KS2), with extension ideas for older or more able children. They have been designed to support small group enquiry, but could be easily adapted as individual assessment tasks at the end of a unit on rivers.

Rivers KS2 learning objectives

• Use a simple framework to outline the key physical features of a river
• Use geographical language to describe a river’s features
• Explain how people use rivers
• Understand natural and human impacts on river systems

Ben Ballin is a primary geography consultant to the Geographical Association and a CPD associate for Shropshire LA. These activities were originally trialled with Shropshire teachers.

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