Exploring Our Senses Teacher Guide
Year 2 Geography 45-minute lesson Sensory scavenger hunt in the classroom Teacher support and practical tips
Lesson Overview & Learning Objectives
45-minute introduction to using senses for geographical exploration Students use touch, hearing, and smell to explore classroom environment Develop vocabulary and teamwork through sensory scavenger hunt Build foundation for outdoor exploration in future lessons Links to National Curriculum Geography KS1 observational skills
Pre-Lesson Setup (15 minutes before class)
Set up 5-6 sensory stations around the classroom Place textured objects in accessible containers Prepare scented items in small bags or containers Test audio equipment and sound sources Arrange clipboards, pencils, and checklists Label stations clearly with pictures and simple words
Starter Activity - Introducing Our Senses (5 minutes)
Gather children on the carpet in a circle Use 'Sense Simon Says' to activate prior knowledge Show and name the five senses with actions Explain today's focus: touch, hearing, and smell Build excitement: 'We're classroom explorers today!' Introduce the word 'geographer' - someone who explores places
Main Activity - Sensory Scavenger Hunt (25 minutes)
{"left":"Pair students strategically (mix abilities)\nGive each pair a clipboard and checklist\nStart with a demonstration at one station\nSet clear boundaries for movement","right":"Encourage descriptive vocabulary\nAllow 4-5 minutes per station rotation\nSupport pairs struggling with recording\nPraise cooperation and discoveries"}
Managing the Hunt - Key Questions to Ask
'What does that remind you of?' 'Can you think of another word to describe it?' 'How is this different from the last thing you touched?' 'What do you think makes that sound?' 'Where might you find this smell in real life?'
Group Discussion & Sharing (10 minutes)
Return to carpet circle with completed checklists Each pair shares ONE favorite discovery Encourage use of descriptive vocabulary learned Ask follow-up questions about real-life connections Celebrate different observations of same objects Introduce geography link: 'Scientists explore the world this way!'
Plenary & Next Steps (5 minutes)
'Our senses are our tools for exploring the world around us!'