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Year 5 - Geography

Mapping changes in the UK's forests

Local and global: why are trees and forests important?

Unit Summary

This unit explores the importance of trees and forests at local, national and global scales. Pupils investigate the benefits of trees, map forest change over time, and plan action in response to environmental change in their own local area.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use maps and data sources to identify changes in the UK's woodlands and forests.

Key Notes

  • Without the influence of humans the UK would mainly be woodland and forest.
  • Woodlands in 2023 covers 13% of UK land.
  • Woodland has been cut down through history to make way for farming, settlements and transport links.
  • Old and new maps can be compared to identify changes in woodland over time.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • timber: Timber is wood that has been cut down and prepared for use in industries
  • natural resource: Natural resources are those that come from Earth without human influence and can be used for human needs
  • agriculture: Agriculture is the science and practice of cultivating soil and farming
  • infrastructure: Infrastructure is all the basic systems in a country, such as transport and power supply

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • All non-coniferous woodland is ancient.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Without the influence of humans the UK would mainly be woodland and forest. Woodlands in 2023 covers 13% of UK land.

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

Timber is wood that has been cut down and prepared for use in industries.

3. Correct this common geography misunderstanding.

Mistake: All non-coniferous woodland is ancient. Correction: Using historical maps we can see if deciduous woodland has been recently planted - like the National Forest in the Midlands.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Geography guide library.