Surfing Waves Adventure

Overview

A dynamic and interactive 50-minute session designed to introduce Year 10 students to coastal geography through the engaging context of surfing and waves. Tailored for a student with ADHD and autism, the plan structures activities in short, varied bursts with physical movement, visual stimuli and hands-on elements to support focus and learning.

---

Learning Objectives

Aligned with the National Curriculum for England (Geography Programme of Study, KS4) - The Physical Landscape (Coastal Landscapes Key Ideas):

• Understand the formation and types of waves in coastal environments (NC: Physical geography - processes that shape landscapes).
• Explain the interaction between wind, energy transfer and wave formation relevant to surfing conditions.
• Describe the impact of waves on coastal features and surfing locations.
• Develop map and observational skills relating to coastal environments.
• Encourage curiosity and positive engagement with geography through real-world relevance.

---

Curriculum Link

This lesson supports:

• Geography KS4: Physical landscapes - coastal processes including wave formation and coastal landforms.
• Geographical skills: viewing maps, photos, and field observations to understand natural processes.
• Supports the aims of the NC for active engagement, diversity of learning styles and communication skills development.

---

Timing and Structure

Time	Activity	Description & Purpose	ADHD/Autism Adaptations
0–5 mins	Welcome & Warm-up Wave Movement	Start with a quick physical warm-up mimicking waves (body undulation, arm swings like waves).	Physical movement releases energy; helps focus. Visual + kinaesthetic learning.
5–10 mins	Surfing Environment Brainstorm & Visuals	Use big colourful images of surfing waves and beaches. Student describes or points out what they see. Teacher writes key ideas on board (wind, water, energy).	Visual supports + short focused talk, choice to respond verbally or non-verbally.
10–15 mins	Mini Experiment: Making ‘Wind Waves’ in Water Tank	Use a small tray/tank with water and a fan or hand to create waves, observe wave types. Link back to surfing waves.	Hands-on, sensory activity energises attention.
15–20 mins	Short Video Clip: Surfing Waves Formation	3-4 min simplified animated video on how waves form by wind energy, types of waves best for surfing.	Multi-sensory input, short duration, watch then discuss. Pause for Q&A.
20–30 mins	Building Waves Model with Playdough and String	Create coastal features and waves on a baseboard using tactile materials. Discuss how waves form and hit the shore, connect to surfing.	Tactile + creative task, movement, kinaesthetic learning.
30–40 mins	Mapping Surf Spots & Wave Types	Use printed maps/photos to identify famous UK surfing beaches and wave types. Encourage student to highlight best spots on map with stickers.	Visual + hands-on with stickers, short bursts of map skills.
40–45 mins	Quick Question Game (‘Wave Surf Quiz’)	Rapid-fire Q&A with choices to reinforce key concepts learned. Use thumbs up/down or cards to answer.	Movement allowed while answering, engaging format.
45–50 mins	Reflection & Cool Down: Favourite Wave Moment	Student expresses verbally or draws their favourite thing learnt or about surfing waves. Close with deep breathing “ocean wave” exercise.	Calm end to session encourages self-regulation and summarisation.

---

Resources Needed

• Large screen for images/video
• Water tray / small tank
• Fan or hand to create wind effect on water
• Playdough, string, baseboard for modelling
• Printed maps/photos of UK surfing beaches
• Stickers or markers for maps
• Whiteboard or flipchart for brainstorming
• Cards or coloured paper for quiz answers

---

Assessment & Feedback

• Formative assessment through observation of participation in activities and verbal responses.
• Informal questioning during and after the video and experiment to check understanding.
• Final reflection captures the student's grasp and personal engagement.
• Adapted feedback style: praise movement, creativity, and effort alongside knowledge recall.

---

Extension Ideas

• A follow-up field trip to a local beach to observe waves and coastal features firsthand.
• Creating a mini surfing weather forecast incorporating wind and wave knowledge.
• Digital project: design a poster or simple animation explaining how surfing waves form.

---

Notes on Meeting Learner Needs

• Movement breaks and multisensory inputs to maintain engagement.
• Clear, simple language; visual cues and hands-on materials to support understanding.
• Choice in responding ensures comfort and reduces stress.
• Calm, structured environment with predictable steps to build confidence.

---

This lesson combines curriculum rigour with creativity and acceleration of sensory engagement, making coastal geography memorable and exciting for all learners, especially those needing additional focus and sensory support. Surf’s up! 🌊🏄‍♂️