Y4 Geography - Amazon Rainforest

6 Lesson Overview Lesson 1 – Where Is the Amazon Rainforest? (Geography Focus) WALT: locate the Amazon Rainforest and identify the continent, countries and key physical features. Overview: Recap the seven continents. Locate South America, Brazil, and the Amazon Basin. Explore maps, climate zones and the equator. Pupils label maps and complete a short fact‑finding task. Outcome: Pupils can confidently locate the Amazon and describe its global position. Lesson 2 – Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn (Geography) WALT: understand what the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn are and why the Amazon lies between them. Overview: Introduce lines of latitude and the idea of imaginary lines on Earth. Explore the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) and Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S). Explain how the tropical zone creates the Amazon’s hot, wet climate. Pupils label a world map and identify countries within the tropics. Outcome: Pupils explain what the tropics are and how they affect the Amazon’s climate. Lesson 3 – Layers of the Rainforest (Geography) WALT: describe the four layers of the rainforest and the animals that live there. Overview: Introduce emergent, canopy, understory, forest floor. Explore how animals adapt to each layer. Pupils create a layer diagram or cross‑section. Outcome: Pupils explain each layer and match animals to their habitats. Lesson 4 – Why the Amazon Matters (Geography/Science) WALT: understand why the Amazon is important to the planet. Overview: Explore biodiversity, oxygen production, medicines, water cycle, Indigenous communities. Discuss why the rainforest is called the “lungs of the Earth.” Pupils create an information poster or mini‑presentation. Outcome: Pupils explain at least three reasons the Amazon is vital. Lesson 5 – What Is Deforestation? (Geography/Human Impact) WALT: identify what deforestation is and what causes it. Overview: Explore farming, cattle ranching, logging, mining, road building. Look at before/after images and maps. Pupils sort causes into categories (economic, environmental, social). Outcome: Pupils can explain what deforestation is and why it happens. Lesson 6 – Debate: Should Deforestation Be Allowed? (Speaking & Listening) WALT: debate the advantages and disadvantages of deforestation. Overview: Introduce for/against arguments using debate cards.# Group roles: Speaker, Note‑taker, Time‑keeper, Evidence Finder. Structured debate with counter‑arguments and hot‑seat challenge. Outcome: Pupils present arguments clearly and respond to opposing views.