Year 1 and 2 Mixed Age Geography – Local Area and Mapping
Support your mixed age class with this Year 1 and 2 geography block focused on the local area and early map skills. Part of our mixed age geography scheme for KS1, this block uses the same lessons as our single-age units, organised into a clear two-year rolling structure. Teachers working with combined Year 1 and 2 classes can deliver the sequence confidently, knowing it meets National Curriculum expectations and works for both year groups.
As part of Glorious Geography, which has been Highly Commended by the Geographical Association, this block helps children explore their surroundings, develop simple mapping skills and carry out early fieldwork. Planning, differentiated tasks and interactive slides are included to make mixed age teaching manageable and effective.
How to use our mixed-age Geography scheme of work
For schools with mixed age classes, we have adapted the scheme so that the Year 1 and Year 2 blocks can be used on a two-year cycle. In the first year of the cycle, all pupils in Year 1 and 2 will follow the Cycle A blocks of lessons.
In the second year, all pupils in Year 1 and 2 will follow the Cycle B blocks of lessons. This ensures that children do not repeat any of the blocks during KS1.
Click here to get an overview of the unit outcomes.
Lessons in this block
- Week 1: What are the features of a park?
- Week 2: How can I get from my school to the local park?
- Week 3: Let’s explore the local park!
- Week 4: Where are the swings?
- Week 5: What are other parks in the world like?
- Week 6: How can we improve our local park?
What this mixed-age block covers
This Year 1 and 2 mixed age geography block introduces children to their local area through observation, simple fieldwork and map-based activities. Pupils identify human and physical features, follow simple routes, use keys and directional language, and compare different places using photos and maps.
The structure works well for both year groups. Younger children access the learning through practical tasks and clear explanations, while older children build on their knowledge and apply skills with increasing independence.
Key skills developed
- Recognising and naming human and physical features
- Using simple maps, keys and basic compass directions
- Carrying out early fieldwork through observing and recording
- Comparing places using photos, maps and enquiry
- Sharing opinions and suggesting improvements to a local area
Where this block fits in the cycle
This is the first block in the Cycle A sequence for Year 1 and 2 mixed age geography. It pairs with the equivalent Cycle B block taught the following year to ensure children experience a broad range of geography topics without repeating lessons.
Start using this mixed-age geography block
Download this Year 1 and 2 mixed age geography block as part of our primary geography scheme of work. Access all lesson packs, planning and worksheets with a free trial and bring local area geography to life in your mixed age classroom.
