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Year 8 - Geography

Population in cities

Cities: What are they like to live in?

Unit Summary

This unit teaches pupils about how cities have grown and developed over time. Life in contrasting cities is explored through focussing on Manila and London.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain who lives in cities and why.

Key Notes

  • Urban populations often have a larger share of people aged 18–40.
  • Migration to cities is driven by employment and educational opportunities.
  • Cities provide a wide range of leisure facilties which are also a draw for younger people.
  • Natural increase is a key factor in the growth of urban populations.
  • High population density puts pressure on infrastructure and services.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • migration: the movement of people from one place to another
  • natural increase: when birth rates are higher than death rates
  • population density: the number of people living in a defined area, e.g. 300 people per square kilometre

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Cities only grow because of migration.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Urban populations often have a larger share of people aged 18–40. Migration to cities is driven by employment and educational opportunities.

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

the movement of people from one place to another.

3. Correct this common geography misunderstanding.

Mistake: Cities only grow because of migration. Correction: While migration is a key factor, natural increase (more births than deaths) is often just as important - especially in cities with young populations.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 8 Geography guide library.