English Primary Schoolchildren's Definitions of Geography

Abstract

By the end of six years of geography teaching during their primary education, the large majority of English 10–11-year-olds can state their understanding of geography. Analysis of children's definitions of geography reveals that four components of the subject stand out. Mapwork was mentioned by three-quarters of the children, while some two-thirds referred to countries and world knowledge. Place, as studies of localities, was noted by a third of the children. Every child who could define geography mentioned at least one of these four components. While the children's definitions of geography reflect relevant elements of the English geography national curriculum, the emphasis on these components indicates a more limited sense of geography than might be anticipated. None the less, the children's ideas are recognisable as a public perception of geography. These findings indicate that most children have a basic understanding of geography when they leave primary school.