aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Geography
What age group	Year or Grade 9
What topic	Do Now Activity
Quantity	1
Any other preferences	Prior Learning: Students have started Cold Environments this half term. Students have an understanding of where cold environments are, the challenges that these regions face, how animals have adapted to these environments and how indigenous populations have evolved in this climate. Students are currently preparing for their assessment which will be on the management of polar and tundra regions and how sustainable this can be.

Geography Lesson: Do Now Activity on Cold Environments

Objective

To engage Year 9 students in reflective thinking about the challenges and management of polar and tundra regions as they prepare for their upcoming assessment.

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Do Now Activity: "Picture the Polar"

Instructions:

1. Upon entering the classroom, each student will find a large map of the Arctic and Antarctic regions displayed on the board.

2. Students will receive a Sticky Note. On this sticky note, they will write down their response to the following question:

   “If you could visit any cold environment (polar or tundra), what one thing would you want to experience and why?”

3. Encourage students to think about the adaptations of both animals and indigenous populations in these regions, as well as the environmental challenges that they face.

Example:

• "I would want to see a polar bear in its natural habitat because I am fascinated by how it survives in such extreme conditions."

4. After 5-10 minutes, ask students to stick their notes on designated areas around the map:

   • North Pole
   • South Pole
   • Tundra Regions

5. Once everyone has shared their thoughts, invite a few students to read their responses aloud. This will foster a discussion on why these cold environments are unique and what makes them worth experiencing, linking their desires to the sustainability and management discussions you will dive into during the lesson.

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Purpose:

This activity will serve not only as a creative icebreaker but also as a way to activate prior knowledge and set the stage for deeper conversations about the challenges and management strategies relevant to cold environments. Students will reflect on their understanding while fostering a community of shared interests and perspectives.

Transition:

Following the discussion, introduce the day's main content focusing on the management and sustainability of polar and tundra regions, encouraging students to keep their reflections in mind as they explore these critical environmental topics.