Testimonials

"An invaluable resource, quickly in demand by all the teachers in my department.”

Rachel Atkins,
Head of Geography, Bristol Grammar School

The DVD examines the current issues surrounding an ageing population in the UK, focusing on East Devon as a case study. It begins by looking at the nature of the UK’s ageing population and changing dependency ratio, highlighting the causes and consequences, both positive and negative.

It illustrates how governments, NGOs and individuals are meeting the challenges at the national and local scale, as well as exploring the impact on health services, transport, housing, pensions and the growing crisis of care.

The DVD is based on a 30-minute documentary, divided into clear sections. In addition, PowerPoint lesson plans are available, which demonstrate how the video could be built into a two to three lesson scheme of work. There are also photocopiable thinking skills activities, further background case study information and material, along with links to related internet resources.

This resource would be ideal for use with students studying population and settlement within geography at key stages 4 and 5, particularly when an awareness of issues or in-depth case study material needs to be achieved. As the structure of the DVD is clearly outlined, it would be possible to simply select certain sections to show to the group.

The material is up-to-date, providing figures for 2005, as well as being very good at emphasising key vocabulary. Since the second half focuses on various issues, the material could also act as a stimulus for lively debate or discussion or as a means for introducing a decision-making style exercise.

In light of the extensive support material that accompanies this DVD, this resource would seem to be a worthwhile investment for any school with a large uptake of students at GCSE, AS and A2 level.

Emma Espley,
Review in Teaching Geography, Summer 2006, Ribston Hall High School, Gloucester

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