Physical features of countries in Europe
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use digital and atlas maps to identify and locate key physical geographical features of Europe.
Key learning points
- Atlas maps can be used to investigate the key physical features of Europe.
- Europe has a diverse range of physical geographical features such as mountains and rivers.
- The Alps and the Pyrenees are major mountain ranges in Europe.
- Europe is home to some major rivers including the Volga, the Danube and the Rhine.
- The Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean both border countries in Europe but are very different in size and character.
Keywords
Map key - A map key is a box of information on a map that tells you what the lines and symbols on the map mean.
Scale - The scale on a map shows what size the area that is represented in the map really is.
Interpretation - An interpretation is an opinion on or explanation of the meaning of something.
Physical feature - A physical feature is natural and has not been built by humans.
Common misconception
Learners may struggle to make sense of atlas maps which often show a lot of complex information.
Spend additional time exploring a digital atlas map as a class or group to reinforce learners’ understanding of different map conventions.
Teacher tip
Learners could create an annotated map of Europe to show the location of some key physical features.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the country to the correct capital city.
Cardiff
Edinburgh
Vienna
Madrid
Q2.A major city usually has a population of over
Q3.Which of these climate zones are found in Europe?
Q4.Atlas maps are a useful way of investigating a location. They provide a image.
Q5.Physical features are features, for example rivers and mountains. Which word correctly fills the gap?
Q6.Which of these are physical landmarks in Europe?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the correct key word and definition.
These maps show the landscape and rivers.
These maps show country borders, cities and towns.
Q2.What does scale on a map show?
Q3.A key on a map explains what the symbols on the map mean.
Q4.What physical features are seen in Northern Europe?
Q5.Which of these mountain ranges are in Europe?
Q6.Match each physical feature to the European country it is located in.
Russia
France
Slovenia
To help you plan your 4 geography lesson on: Physical features of countries in Europe, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 geography lesson on: Physical features of countries in Europe, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 geography lessons from the Europe: how diverse are its landscapes and places? unit, dive into the full primary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.