May 6, 2015 -- The UK Geographical Association has awarded ‘Highly Commended’ to new book published by educational resource specialist Wildgoose Education Ltd. Written by Ben Ballin and Jane Whittle, “Back2Front: The Americas” supports children’s investigation of North and South America for the 2014/15 UK National Curriculum. Taking an investigative and thoughtful approach, the book provides teachers with key enquiry questions, teaching ideas and curriculum links as well as encouraging them to reflect on their teaching. The presentation was made at the Geographical Association’s Annual Conference and Exhibition held in Manchester from 9-11 April 2015 by Mark Higginbottom - GA President, Steve Rawlings - Senior Vice President and David Collins - Professor of Physical Geography at the University of Salford.

On presentation of the award, the Geographical Association noted: “The judges felt this was a very useful resource that will help teachers with this area of the new curriculum. The scope of the book is vast and the geographical content is up to date and balanced. Each double page spread is led by an enquiry question, while each page offers a good range of approaches and ideas. Teachers are also supported with external resources to help them enhance their lessons. The book can be used in a variety of ways with pupils aged from 7-11, and the well informed teacher will be able to create exciting lessons with the ideas and materials presented.”

Designed with the non-specialist in mind, “Back2Front: The Americas”, published by Wildgoose, addresses new National Curriculum requirements to study a region within North or South America at Key Stage 2. Topics included with the 40 page full colour book include ‘Who owns the Amazon?’, ‘What makes California Special?’ and ‘Is French Guiana in South America?’ The book is the latest Wildgoose resource to be recognised by the Geographical Association, with previous awards for both the “Amazing China” and “Coast to Coast” Photopacks.

Author Jane Whittle commented, “It is a real honour to receive this recognition from the Geographical Association. While this book takes the Americas as its focus, the resource can serve as a model for planning to teach about other distant places and this is an idea we are keen to explore with the continued support of Wildgoose.”

The long standing Geographical Association Publishers Awards recognise materials that make a significant contribution to school geography. The Geographical Association is an independent charity with a core objective to further geographical knowledge and understanding through education. The Geographical Association promotes and supports geography teaching by producing high quality resources for teachers, running CPD events and influencing policy makers. 

Contacts: 
Michael Dodson
Wildgoose General Manager 
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+44(0)01530 518568
www.wildgoose.ac