Geogra3: Interview lessons, GIS made simple, Urban landscapes

In this week's Geogra3 we look at how to boss an interview lesson observation, how to use GIS in the classroom and making urban landscapes interesting.

1. How to boss an interview lesson

Job interviews obviously take place throughout the year but this term often sees the most.  I came across a really useful blog, not specifically Geography related, but provides some great tips on how to show your best in that 30 minute lesson observation on interview day.  What I really liked about it was not only the top tips but some ideas of what this could look like or what you could actually say, in reality.  Well worth checking it out here.

2. Using GIS in the classroom

Do you feel less than confident about using GIS effectively in the classroom?  I’ve been to training sessions and come away feeling more lost than when I started!  I really do value the capabilities of GIS - I just lack the ideas of how to bring it into the classroom effectively.  However, I came across this brilliant site from Geospatial UK that has a variety of very easy to follow booklets/activities, including a look at coastal erosion using maps of various locations on the UK coast.  There is also a booklet on using census data via Datashine which could be very useful for the Changing Places element in A-level.  They are specifically aimed at KS4 and KS5 (ages 14-18).  I’d love to know how you get on - I think they’re great!

3. Bringing the urban landscape to life

I’m a fan of human geography and particularly love exploring the urban landscape.  The photographs from the British Landscape Photographer of the Year offer a great variety of images to introduce urbanisation, with a variety of perspectives that you can use to spark discussion.  Looking at these reminded me of homework I’ve set before, linked to Daniel Raven-Ellison’s Urban Earth project.  He has put together a series of videos of cities that are created by taking a photo every 8 steps.  They’re great for illustrating the changing land use zones in an urban transect.  I’ve had students going into their local neighbourhoods, using their phones to take a photo every 10 steps and then put them together into a video.  I was amazed at what they managed to do, with many including a bit of fancy editing and music to go with it!  

And that's it for this week's Geogra3.  Remember if you want to get a weekly dose straight to your inbox, simply sign up via this LINK.

PS - I love nothing more than supporting Geography teachers as we are a pretty awesome bunch.  

So here are five ways that I might be able to help you….

• The FREE resource booklet - 17 Q and A worksheets linked to documentaries
• The GTB Vault - Classroom-ready powerpoints and worksheets so you never need to feel guilty about showing a video in class again! New pick up and go lesson resources added every month.
• The Geography Teacher Box bookstore - boost your subject knowledge while supporting local independent bookshops
• Tote-ally Geography - A newly created store with tote bags designed specifically for geography teachers.
• Connect with other like-minded Geography teachers and share resources (suitable for teachers of students aged 11-18) - The GTB Facebook Group