Mrs Mactivity

Year 1/2 Cycle A Geography Block 1

Year 1 and 2 Mixed Age Geography – Local Area and Mapping

Support mixed-age geography teaching with this Year 1 and 2 mixed age geography block focused on the local area and early map skills. Designed for schools teaching combined Year 1 and Year 2 classes, this block forms part of our mixed age geography scheme of work and provides a clear sequence of lessons that works effectively in mixed-age classrooms.

The lessons follow the same carefully planned structure as our single-year units but are organised so that pupils in mixed age KS1 classes experience the full geography curriculum without repeating the same topics.

As part of Glorious Geography, which has been Highly Commended by the Geographical Association, this block supports pupils in exploring their local environment, developing early map skills and carrying out simple fieldwork. Planning, differentiated activities and interactive slides are included to support teachers and make mixed-age geography teaching manageable and effective.

How to use the Year 1 and 2 mixed-age Geography cycle

For schools teaching mixed age classes, the Year 1 and Year 2 geography units can be organised into a two-year cycle.

In the first year of the cycle, pupils follow the Cycle A geography blocks. In the second year, pupils follow the Cycle B blocks. This ensures that children in mixed age KS1 classes experience the full geography curriculum without repeating the same blocks.

Click here to view the full unit overview and 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.