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Year 1 - Geography

Earth view: using globes and satellite images

Continents and oceans: what can we find out about the world?

Unit Summary

This unit uses globes, maps and satellite images to explore the world's continents, oceans, rivers and mountains. Pupils locate key features and landmarks and begin to understand the UK's position in the wider world.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use globes, satellite images and geographical vocabulary to describe Earth.

Key Notes

  • The round Earth is covered with water and land, and above that is the atmosphere.
  • We use models, called globes, and photographs taken from space to think about what the world is like.
  • Most of the surface of the world (over 70%) is covered with water, which is why Earth is known as the Blue Planet.
  • The colours on a globe or satellite image give us information, such as whether it's land or ocean.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • ocean: An ocean is a very big area of salt water between the continents.
  • land: Land is any part of Earth's surface that is not covered by water.
  • atmosphere: The atmosphere is the layer of gases that surrounds Earth. It includes the oxygen we need to breathe, so it is essential for life on Earth.
  • planet: A planet is a large round object that travels around a star in space.
  • satellite: A satellite is an object in space that orbits or circles around a bigger object in space. These an be natural like the moon or artificial ones like the International Space Station.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Earth is flat and shaped like a circle.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this geography topic using two clear key points.

The round Earth is covered with water and land, and above that is the atmosphere. We use models, called globes, and photographs taken from space to think about what the world is like.

2. Define this geography term and use it in an example. 'ocean'

An ocean is a very big area of salt water between the continents.

3. Correct this common geography misunderstanding.

Mistake: Earth is flat and shaped like a circle. Correction: Earth is round and shaped like a sphere. It is 3D and not flat. Relate this to globes.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 1 Geography guide library.