Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
6th Year Global Perspectives and Local Landscapes
A comprehensive exploration of the physical and human processes that shape our world. Students develop advanced cartographic skills while investigating global inequalities, environmental sustainability, and the interconnectedness of Irish and global communities.
01The Dynamic Earth: Rocks and Mountains
Investigating the geological forces that create mountain ranges and the characteristics of different rock types.
Students will observe and describe the basic characteristics of common rocks (e.g., smooth, rough, sparkly, dull) and understand that rocks are made of different materials.
A simplified introduction to how rocks can change over very long periods due to weather, water, and heat, without detailing the full rock cycle.
Exploring the causes and effects of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and their relationship to plate boundaries.
Examining the extent and impact of the last glacial period on the Irish landscape.
Studying specific landforms created by glacial erosion and deposition, such as U-shaped valleys, corries, and drumlins.
Understanding the processes of physical and chemical weathering and how they break down rocks and shape landscapes.
Investigating how soils are formed from weathered rock and organic matter, and their vital role in supporting life.
02Cartography and Spatial Awareness
Developing mastery in reading, interpreting, and creating maps using traditional and digital tools.
Learning to interpret standard map symbols and understanding the importance of a map key for navigation.
Learning that maps are smaller versions of real places and how to use simple methods (e.g., string, ruler with a simple key) to estimate distances on a map.
Learning to use simple coordinates (e.g., A1, B2) or directional language (e.g., 'north of the river') to locate features on a map.
Understanding how maps show high and low ground using colours, shading, or simple pictorial representations, without introducing contour lines.
03Settlement, People and Places
Analyzing why people live where they do and how urban and rural settlements evolve over time.
Investigating the physical and human factors that determine where people choose to build settlements.
Studying the growth of major cities and the challenges of urban sprawl and infrastructure.
Exploring common problems faced by cities, such as traffic congestion, pollution, and housing shortages, and potential solutions.
Investigating how rural communities are adapting to economic and social changes.
Exploring traditional and new economic activities in rural areas, including agriculture, tourism, and remote work.
Exploring the reasons for human migration, both voluntary and forced, and the factors that attract or repel people.
Investigating the social, economic, and cultural impacts of migration on both host and origin communities.
04Global Interdependence and Trade
Examining the links between producers and consumers in a globalized economy.
Tracing the supply chain of everyday items like smartphones or chocolate from raw materials to the consumer.
Understanding the Fair Trade movement and how consumer choices impact workers globally.
Comparing the quality of life and economic development between different global regions.
Exploring simple ways people and organisations help communities in other countries, focusing on concepts of sharing and support rather than complex aid mechanisms.
05Climate Change and Environmental Stewardship
Investigating the science of climate change and the actions needed to protect the planet.
Understanding the natural atmospheric processes that trap heat and maintain Earth's temperature.
Investigating how human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, accelerate the greenhouse effect and lead to global warming.
Examining observable signs that the Earth's climate is changing, including rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and extreme weather.
Exploring wind and solar energy as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, focusing on their benefits and limitations.
Investigating other forms of renewable energy, such as hydroelectric, geothermal, and tidal power, and their global applications.
Studying the importance of a wide variety of life forms (biodiversity) for healthy ecosystems and human well-being.
Investigating major threats to biodiversity, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and invasive species.
Exploring local and global initiatives aimed at protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices.
06European Neighbors and Global Regions
A comparative study of European countries and a contrasting non-European region.
An introduction to Ireland's place in Europe, focusing on shared culture, travel, and how we are connected to other European countries.
Investigating how being part of the European Union impacts daily life, economy, and culture in Ireland.
A comparative study of the physical and human geography of two contrasting European countries (e.g., France and Norway).
A deep dive into the physical geography of Brazil, including the Amazon Rainforest, rivers, and diverse ecosystems.
Exploring the diverse cultures, urban life, and social challenges faced by people in Brazil.
Investigating environmental challenges in South America, such as deforestation in the Amazon and water pollution.
Reflecting on the responsibilities of being a citizen in an interconnected world and understanding global issues.
Exploring ways young people can influence global issues, advocate for change, and contribute to a more sustainable world.