Sri Lanka Grade 6 Curriculum - Geography

This course introduces students to basic geographical concepts, focusing on their immediate surroundings and expanding to the national and global levels. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of nature and society, encouraging environmental awareness and responsible resource management. The curriculum utilizes various learning activities, including field studies, map work, and data analysis, to foster a deeper understanding of geographical principles.

Unit 1: The School and its Immediate Surroundings

This unit encourages students to explore their school's location within the administrative divisions of Sri Lanka, from the Grama Niladhari Division to the Province. Students learn to identify and represent the school's location on maps, describe the surrounding landscape, and understand the concept of direction.

• Identifying School Location: Students learn to pinpoint their school's location within the Sri Lankan administrative hierarchy. This involves understanding the different levels of administration, from the smallest (Grama Niladhari Division) to the largest (Province). They also learn to represent this information on maps and in written descriptions.
• Weather Conditions: This sub-unit introduces students to basic weather elements like temperature, rainfall, wind, and clouds. They learn to use instruments like thermometers, rain gauges, and wind direction indicators to collect data and observe weather patterns. Students also learn about the importance of weather forecasting and its impact on daily life.
• Landscape: Students explore the geographical features surrounding their school, differentiating between natural and man-made elements. They learn to represent these features through sketch maps, using symbols and incorporating concepts of direction, distance, and scale.

Unit 2: Nature of the Land in the Immediate Surroundings of the House

Building upon the previous unit, students now explore the environment around their homes. They learn to identify different landforms and understand their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. This unit also emphasizes the importance of responsible land use and environmental protection.

• Plant and Animal Diversity: Students investigate the variety of plants and animals in their local environment, understanding their roles and interdependencies within the ecosystem. They learn about the benefits of biodiversity and the importance of conservation. The concept of migratory birds is also introduced.
• Human Activities: This sub-unit examines the economic activities within the community, including agriculture, industry, and services. Students learn how these activities are influenced by the local environment and resources. The importance of community cooperation and diverse cultural practices is also highlighted.

Unit 3: Good Maintenance of the Immediate Surroundings of Your Home

This unit focuses on responsible environmental stewardship. Students learn about the importance of conserving natural resources like land, water, air, and energy. They also explore strategies for proper waste management and the benefits of reusing and recycling.

• Disposal of Waste Materials: Students learn about different types of waste and their impact on the environment. They explore methods for reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling non-degradable items. The concept of composting and its benefits for the environment is also introduced.

Unit 4: Location of Sri Lanka

This unit expands the geographical scope to the national level. Students learn about Sri Lanka's location in the Indian Ocean and its relative position to other countries and continents. They also explore how the island's location influences its climate, economy, and culture.

• Important Places Located in Sri Lanka: Students learn about significant locations in Sri Lanka, including major cities, ports, and airports. They explore the economic, social, and cultural importance of these places and their contribution to the country's development.
• Other Islands in the World: This sub-unit introduces students to other islands around the world, comparing their sizes and locations. This helps students develop a global perspective and understand the diversity of island environments.