GIS: Analysing the population of the UK
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a GIS to analyse the distribution and structure of the UK's population.
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.
Teacher tip
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.
Equipment
Computers, tablets or laptops with an internet connection.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the approximate population of the UK in 2025?
Q2.Which part of the UK has the highest population?
Q3.Which city has the largest population in the UK?
Q4.What is population density?
Q5.How is the UK's population expected to change in the future?
Q6.What is the main reason for an ageing population in the UK?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What does GIS stand for?
Q2.How can GIS help in studying the UK's population?
Q3.Which part of the UK has the highest population density?
Q4.What type of map does GIS use to show population density?
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: GIS: Analysing the population of the UK, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: GIS: Analysing the population of the UK, 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 3 geography lessons from the Population: where do people live? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.