GEOGRAPHY
Classifying Land Uses
Using a combination of aerial photographs, a sorting and classification exercise and primary fieldwork, the class develops an understanding of different land-uses in central Hammersmith. This enables them to create an accurate land-use map of the local area.
This session links to Geography Unit 6.
Mapwork
The difference between maps and aerial photos is explored during a classroom based activity, with the concept of orientation also being discussed. The skills the class have developed are then put into practice with a fieldwork session following a route on a map.
This activity links to Geography Unit 6.
Environmental Quality
A session investigating environmental quality and change in Hammersmith Broadway. Students use photos to trace change over time and then assess environmental quality and the issues affecting this through local fieldwork. This is followed by a discussion about future development and the need for a sustainable approach.
Links to Geography Units 8 and 21
Development of a Settlement
A study of the development of Hammersmith from the rural community of 1863 to the urban centre of the present day. Evidence from maps and photographs is used to show the changes which have occurred over time, followed by a guided walk to identify similarities and differences between the older settlement and the present landscape.
Links to Geography Unit 9 and History Unit 18
Traffic Investigation
A fieldwork based programme exploring transport issues and attitudes in Hammersmith by using traffic surveys, pedestrian counts, questionnaires and environmental quality assessment. The students will be asked to identify any ways in which they feel these issues can be managed and the situation improved.
Links to Geography Unit 12
Riverside Environments
By following a trail along the riverside in Hammersmith, the class will observe both human and wildlife activity on the Thames and its physical features. They will increase their knowledge, develop observation skills and learn techniques such as field sketching.
Links to Geography Unit 14
HISTORY
Victorian Hammersmith
An introductory presentation highlights aspects of life in the borough during Victorian times. This is followed by a trail around Hammersmith identifying features of Victorian heritage.
Links to History Unit 12
World War Two
The reasons for and impacts of bombing during the Second World War are considered. Photographs of bomb damage in the local area are compared with the present day during a trail around central Hammersmith.
Links to History Unit 9
1908 London Olympics
The first London Olympics took place a century ago in the area now known as White City. Learn about some of the main events of these Games in a classroom based introduction, followed by a trail around White City looking for evidence of the stadium and associated Franco-British Exhibition.
Riverside History
The riverside area of the Thames in Hammersmith has a rich history from a
range of periods. Through direct observation and investigation students can gain an understanding of the area's changing character and increase their knowledge of the people and events which have shaped our past.
Links to History Unit 18
CITIZENSHIP
Fairtrade Detectives
The Urban Studies Centre is able to advise on registering for the Fairtrade Schools Scheme. Hammersmith and Fulham council supports fair trade and achieved FAIRTRADE Borough status in 2005. It encourages local residents, businesses, schools and community groups to support fair trade too.
SCIENCE
Foreshore ExplorerA visit to the river foreshore to observe and describe conditions in a local habitat. Through river dipping and other explorations, students are given a chance to record and identify invertebrate life in the river. They also consider feeding relationships, adaptations and the environmental factors which are important in this habitat.
Links to Science Units 4b and 6a
Rocks in the Built Environment
Different rock types are introduced in a practical session and grouped in terms of texture and appearance. A trail of Hammersmith Centre identifies the different rocks used in the built environment and their use is considered in relation to their key characteristics.
Links to Science Unit 3d
Minibeast Safari
A visit to Godolphin Garden, Shepherds Bush or Loris Garden, Hammersmith for habitat investigations.
The session includes identifying minibeasts from the wildlife pond and around the nature garden and discovering how the animals are adapted to their environment.
For more information about the Godolphin and Loris Community gardens go to hcga.org.uk
Links to Science 4b 4c 5b 5c
CROSS CURRICULAR SESSIONS
Cultural Heritage of Shepherds Bush Market
A tour of the market where children will learn about the history, changes and cultural influences . The aim is to discover how the market started off as a traditional London street market and has evolved into an ethnically, culturally and socially diverse shopping experience in West London, reflecting how our city is developing and growing culturally today.
Suitable for upper KS2 and KS3.
