Aims

To develop knowledge and understanding of local, regional and wider environments and their interrelationships
To encourage an understanding and appreciation of the variety of natural and human conditions on the Earth
To develop empathy with people from diverse environments and an understanding of human interdependence
To develop the ability to use a range of communicative methods
To encourage the development of a sense of place and spatial awareness
To encourage the development of caring attitudes and responsible behaviour towards the environment
To develop an understanding of appropriate geographical concepts

Study the impact of environmental conditions on the lives of people in the locality and in other areas
Engage in active exploration of local and other environments
Acquire the ability to use and understand appropriate investigative methods in the study of natural and human features and phenomena in local and other environments
Develop a sense of place
Develop a sense of space
Develop a cognitive map of the local area and extend the process to wider geographical settings
Acquire an ability to understand, develop and use a range of plans, maps and globes
Develop an ability to acquire, analyse and communicate geographical knowledge using a wide variety of sources
Develop sensitivity to the natural and human elements of the environment
Learn of and come to value the diversity of peoples, cultures and societies in Ireland and throughout the world