Discovering the Treasures of France

• Geography
• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)

Discovering the Treasures of France

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the physical and human geography of France.

What do you already know about the physical and human geography of France?

Which countries neighbour France?

Introduction to France

France, located in Western Europe, is known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Geography

France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north; the Atlantic Ocean in the west; the Pyrenees Mountains and Spain in the south.

Geography

Wide fertile plains dominate most of the north and west, making France the agricultural epicenter of Europe. The sprawling, forested plateau of the Massif Central, a range of ancient mountains and extinct volcanoes, occupies France's southern interior.

Physical Geography

France has a varied physical geography, including mountain ranges like the Alps and the Pyrenees, as well as rivers like the Seine and the Loire.

Nature

Lowland forests are home to deer and wild boar, while the woodlands of the Alps and Pyrenees provide refuge for rare chamois antelope, ibex, brown bears, and alpine hares, among many other species. The Mediterranean coastline is a stopover of millions of migrating African birds, including flamingos, vultures, egrets, and bee-eaters.

The Alps

The Alps, located in the southeastern part of France, are a majestic mountain range famous for skiing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.

Chamonix

What is the name of the highest mountain in the Alps and how high is it?

The Pyrenees

The Pyrenees, forming the natural border between France and Spain, offer stunning landscapes, including deep valleys and picturesque villages.

Pyrenees

Nature

France has ample land area to provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. More than 25 percent of its territory is covered with forest, and another 50 percent is countryside or farmland.

Rivers of France

France is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, such as the Seine and the Loire, which have played a significant role in shaping the country's history and culture.

Loire River

Chateau de Chenonceau,

Loire Valley

Seine

Seine & Saone Rivers

Which river is known for its picturesque villages?

1. The Ganges
2. The Loire
3. The Thames
4. The Danube

Which river has played a significant role in shaping France's history and culture?

1. The Amazon
2. The Mississippi
3. The Nile
4. The Seine

What is the natural border between France and Spain?

1. The Alps
2. The Rocky Mountains
3. The Pyrenees
4. The Great Wall of China

Which mountain range is located in the southeastern part of France?

1. The Pyrenees
2. The Himalayas
3. The Alps
4. The Andes

Nature

The French government has made a broad commitment to preserving open spaces and the wildlife they contain. About 10 percent of the country has been set aside as national or regional parklands and nature reserves.

Human Geography

France has a diverse population with a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Louvre Museum

Find one fact about the Notre-Dame or the Louvre

The iconic landmarks of France attract tourists from around the world.

Tourism boosts the economy and promotes cultural exchange.

Tourism leads to over-commercialization and ruins local charm.

Preserving landmarks prioritizes the past over future development.

Iconic landmarks have no significant impact on society.

Historical Influences

France has been shaped by various historical influences, including Roman, medieval, and Renaissance periods, which are reflected in its architecture, art, and traditions.

Regions of France

France is divided into different regions, each with its own distinct characteristics and traditions. Examples include Brittany, Provence, and Alsace.

French Cuisine

French cuisine is renowned worldwide for its sophistication and variety. It includes delicacies like croissants, cheese, wine, and escargots.

People and Culture

France is one of the oldest nations on Earth and the most ethnically diverse country in Europe. These deep and broad influences have made France a world leader throughout history in nearly all aspects of culture, including cuisine, wine-making, politics, philosophy, music, art, film, fashion, literature, and sports.

Famous French Personalities

France has produced many influential personalities in various fields, including writers like Victor Hugo, artists like Claude Monet, and scientists like Marie Curie.

Tell me one thing about Marie Curie

Claude Monet

Tell me one thing about Claude Monet

Quiz Time!

Test your knowledge with a fun quiz about the physical and human geography of France.

Which delicacy is associated with French cuisine?

1. Tacos
2. Escargots
3. Sushi
4. Pasta

Which famous landmark is located in France?

1. Statue of Liberty
2. Eiffel Tower
3. Taj Mahal
4. Big Ben

Which period had an influence on France's architecture and art?

1. Baroque
2. Renaissance
3. Victorian
4. Gothic

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Homework