Product reviews for Powerful Geography

Powerful Geography is a well-structured, insightful and in-depth analysis of geography teaching. It is based on current research within a broader analysis of delivering a curriculum that is powerful and that has a clear purpose of “doing geography” linked to putting ideas into practice. 

In a free-flowing style, Mark Enser engages the reader in an analysis and a far-ranging discussion on the role and content of the geography curriculum, challenging the lack of purpose that the “anything is geography” model poses. Mark's ideas for a powerful and purposeful geography curriculum - linked to greater analysis and thinking in greater depth about the world, and organised in terms of threshold, core and hinterland content - will inspire many teachers to extend their vision regarding the purpose of geography education. Mark includes some discussion on current practice by other school practitioners, and this is beneficial in helping the reader to reflect on application in practice. 

In addition to an insightful review of the structure of the geography curriculum, Mark also provides some valuable guidance and tips on strategies to promote knowledge and understanding. In this respect, readers will find the discussion on the use of retrieval techniques beneficial. Furthermore, those readers who have knowledge of Guy Claxton's Learning Power Approach will note that this links well with strategies regarding the development of a culture of enquiry and creating “the need to know”. 

Overall, Powerful Geography is an insightful, stimulating and thought-provoking book which addresses how teachers of geography can promote a curriculum with purpose. It outlines opportunities for critical engagement, challenge for learners and programmes of study in response to drivers of change, in an effort to raise awareness of how to improve the world for the next generations. A must-read for all teachers of geography.