Introduction to Geography

Explain what geography is and name its branches, show why it matters to Rwanda, identify the sources geographers use, and link geography to the other subjects you study.

2

Elements of a Map

Recognise the elements of a map, work out real distances from its scale, give directions, bearings and grid references, read map symbols and contours, and draw your own sketch maps.

3

The Earth in Relation to the Universe

Place the Earth in the universe and the Solar System, explain the phases of the Moon and eclipses, locate places by latitude and longitude, and explain what the Earth's rotation and revolution cause.

4

The Structure of the Earth

Describe the four spheres at the Earth's surface and the layers inside it, the crust, mantle and core, and explain how volcanoes, earthquakes and hot springs in western Rwanda show us what lies beneath.

5

Forms of Relief

Describe relief, altitude and slope and calculate gradients, recognise the relief features of the continents and the ocean floor, and explain how Rwanda's relief shapes where people live, farm, travel and work.

6

Rocks

Tell rocks from minerals, describe and identify rocks, explain how igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks form and change in the rock cycle, and show why Rwanda's rocks matter for building, mining, soils and tourism.

7

Soils

Explain what soil is made of and how it forms, describe and test its texture, structure, colour, porosity and permeability, read a soil profile and a soil catena on a Rwandan hillside, and explain why soils must be protected.

8

Weather and Climate

Tell weather from climate, measure temperature, rainfall, pressure, wind, humidity, cloud and sunshine at a weather station, calculate means and ranges, explain the water cycle and the factors that shape climate, and read Rwanda's climate from a climate graph.

9

Vegetation

Recognise Rwanda's natural and planted vegetation, explain how climate, soils, relief and people decide where each type grows, and show why vegetation matters for soil, water, wildlife and livelihoods.

10

Drainage

Explain what drainage is, name and describe the different water bodies, follow a river from source to mouth through its youthful, mature and old stages, recognise drainage patterns on a map, and relate Rwanda's rivers, lakes and swamps to the way people live and work.

11

Hazards

Tell hazards, disasters and catastrophes apart, explain the causes and effects of natural and human-made hazards using Rwandan and regional cases, and suggest sensible ways to prevent disasters and prepare for them.

12

Population and Settlement

Use Rwanda's 2022 census to read a population pyramid, calculate density and growth rates, explain where people live and why, compare rural and urban settlement patterns including the imidugudu, and explain the push and pull factors behind migration.

13

Economic Activities

Classify economic activities into primary, secondary and tertiary sectors, locate the main ones in Rwanda on a map, read and calculate from GDP data, and weigh how each activity can support sustainable development.

Units