Hands-on Learning at BBSG Geography Class

Walking into our Grade 7 classroom, students were busy creating their projects using paint, brushes, and clay.

However, it wasn't an art lesson; it was a unique and engaging geography lesson by Ms Yang, our Social Studies teacher.

Focusing on the topic of "Asian Topography," students worked in groups to construct 3D models of Asian landscapes.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Natural Environment

Using contour and colour-coded maps as references, students shaped clay into different forms and heights to represent mountains, plains, rivers, and other landforms. They then painted these models with various colours, during which, the students became "cartographers," unleashing their creativity by personalising legends and determining scales.

"Topography" was not only a crucial aspect of Grade 7 Geography but also a key to unlocking the students' understanding of distinct natural environments across different regions.

By creating three-dimensional models, students gained a more intuitive grasp of the environment's diversity and complexity. They explored how various landforms influenced regional climates, hydrology, vegetation, and animal life, thereby reinforcing their understanding of Asian topography. This hands-on approach aimed to ignite their interest in geography while fostering their observation, analysis, and creative skills.

Geographical Skills: From Paper to the Real World

Geography is a subject that emphasises the application of interdisciplinary knowledge and skills. Ms Yang explained, "The core of this lesson lies in developing mapping skills. We guided the students in extracting essential data from 2D maps and transforming contour maps into 3D models using their mapping skills."

Ms Yang also shared her purpose for designing this activity, "Many of our students will choose international pathway for their future education. As they progress to international courses like IGCSE, they will need both subject knowledge to support their essay arguments and the ability to create simple diagrams, such as specific landform sketches. That's why practical teaching is emphasised at BBSG: to prepare them for higher grade levels and ensure their future academic success."

Geography is a subject that is applied in various aspects of daily life. We can use geographical skills to plan travel routes or predict weather changes. As an educator who integrates education with real-life experiences, Ms Yang encourages students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations by sharing her own travel experience across different countries and regions. This not only adds excitement to the classroom but also broadens students' horizons.

At BBSG, our goal for the geography subject is to provide students with more than just knowledge. It is crucial to instil geographical thinking and skills into their lives, enabling them to understand the world around them, respect nature, and embrace cultural diversity. We aim to nurture future leaders who will explore the world and make a positive impact on the global stage.