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GIS: Analysing the population of the UK
I can use a GIS to analyse the distribution and structure of the UK's population.
Lesson 6 of 12
New
New
- Year 7
GIS: Analysing the population of the UK
I can use a GIS to analyse the distribution and structure of the UK's population.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A GIS can be used to visualise and analyse the UK population.
- A GIS can allow us to analyse the population density and age profile of the UK.
- There are limitations with all GIS applications.
- A GIS can be used to investigate changes in the UK population over time.
Keywords
Population density - the number of people living in a defined area, e.g. 300 people per square kilometre
Census - the official collection of data about a whole population
GIS - (geographic information system) is a computer system that captures, and displays geographic data to help understand spatial patterns
Common misconception
GIS can only show one set of data.
GIS can show multiple layers of data as well as change over time.
ONS census maps allow pupils to analyse population data in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland both have freely available census maps that can be used in learning cycle 1. For learning cycle 2, all pupils should use the England and Wales census map or another GIS platform.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Computers, tablets or laptops with an internet connection.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the approximate population of the UK in 2025?
What is the approximate population of the UK in 2025?
50 thousand
1 billion
Q2.Which part of the UK has the highest population?
Which part of the UK has the highest population?
Scotland
Wales
Q3.Which city has the largest population in the UK?
Which city has the largest population in the UK?
Manchester
Birmingham
Q4.What is population density?
What is population density?
The total number of people in a country.
The number of cities in a country.
The number of births per year.
Q5.How is the UK's population expected to change in the future?
How is the UK's population expected to change in the future?
It will rapidly increase.
It will stay the same.
Q6.What is the main reason for an ageing population in the UK?
What is the main reason for an ageing population in the UK?
Higher birth rates
Increased migration
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What does GIS stand for?
What does GIS stand for?
General Internet Services
Global Information Studies
Q2.How can GIS help in studying the UK's population?
How can GIS help in studying the UK's population?
It predicts exact future population numbers.
It replaces the need for censuses.
Q3.Which part of the UK has the highest population density?
Which part of the UK has the highest population density?
Scotland
Wales
Q4.What type of map does GIS use to show population density?
What type of map does GIS use to show population density?
Political map
Road map
