Year 3 Explore Settlements and Land Use in Morden

As part of our current Geography topic, Settlements and Land Use, Year 3 have been learning about different types of settlements and the choices people make when deciding where to live. The children have been investigating questions such as:
Why do people choose certain locations? How is land used in our local area?

To support this learning, each class took part in a local field trip, exploring streets and a nearby park close to school. During the visit, pupils used their investigative skills to:

• Gather evidence about land use in Morden
• Take photographs of key features
• Collect data on housing, transport, and green spaces

Back in class, the children will analyse their findings and create reports in the style of a geographer, using maps, diagrams, and written explanations to present their conclusions.

Why Morden?

Our local area, Morden, provides a fantastic example of a suburban settlement with a mix of residential areas, transport links, and recreational spaces. This real-world investigation helps pupils understand how geography shapes communities and influences everyday life.

What the Children Said

“I didn’t realise there were so many different types of houses so close to school!”
“The park is really important because people need green spaces to play and relax.”
“I liked counting the shops and seeing what people use them for.” 

A Word from Mrs Roach, Geography Lead

“This fieldwork is an essential part of our geography curriculum. It gives children the chance to apply what they’ve learned in class to the real world, developing observation, data collection, and analytical skills.”

We can’t wait to see the fantastic reports the children produce from their investigations!