Environmental Education : Geography based days

Here is a selection of our more popular days:

Contrasting localities: Villages and valleys

A walk from the Castleshaw Valley, over or along Harrop Edge, and down into Diggle to compare and contrast the valleys and villages. We can also contrast with Oldham if desired. Identify houses, factories, schools and other settlement features using maps. We see how natural features influence the nature of settlements.

Contrasting localities: The Castleshaw Valley

An opportunity to compare and contrast the local area around school with the more rural environment in the Castleshaw Valley. A less strenuous option, with more opportunity for discussion in our classroom, if desired - and the opportunity to take lunch indoors if appropriate.

Contrasting localities: The village of Delph

Includes a walk down the Castleshaw Valley and an exploration of this classic Pennine Village.

Rivers and landscapes

We explore the Castleshaw Valley - from 'top to bottom'. We discover the source of a stream and follow the valley as it changes progressively. We investigate erosion, transportation and deposition. We can also look at rock formation and the work of glaciers, if desired. A number of options are available according to the age and development of the group. Wellington boots are essential (and are provided by the Centre) - this is very much a hands-on and feet-in day!

Mapwork

We offer mapwork days at a number of levels to suit the development of your class.

Introducing maps:What is a map?

The use of a simple map and a guided map walk to discover the use of symbols etc.

At Key Stage 2 We can provide opportunities to:

• make maps of the Centre or Centre grounds;
• learn about compasses and try them out on a simple compass course;
• introduce 4 figure references, and use them to complete a simple compass course;
• apply skills like measuring distance and direction, following routes, understanding symbols etc. in a practical situation which is fun and challenging.

The Delph Bypass Game

A day involving role play, debating skills, use and interpretation of maps, an understanding of the environment and the delicate balance between our need for houses, jobs etc. and conservation. The day begins with a visit from the town planner who has been asked to come up with a possible route for a bypass around the village of Delph. The group walk the route of the “proposed bypass”, and see first hand the problems and potential of the proposal. If  appropriate, pupils can take part in a “public debate” back at the centre, and adopt the role of a local resident, a local business person or an environmental campaigner. Alternatively this can be done back at school as part of the calss teacher’s follow up.

Wind Turbine Debate

An opportunity for students to explore the issues associated with building wind turbines in moorland areas.

Visit local peat moorland to learn about the unique and delicate habitat this provides, and the potential impacts of construction and operation of electricity generating wind turbines on:

• wildlife and plants;
• local residents;
• quiet enjoyment;
• the visual environment;
• etc.

Balance this with input on the need to:

• conserve fossil fuels;
• reduce carbon emissions;
• reduce Global Warming;
• use renewable sources to generate electricity.

If appropriate, students may take part in a “public debate” to present the pros and cons of the argument.

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Oldham Council, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT.
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