Geography Fieldwork in Pontyclun Village

This afternoon, Mrs Marlow's class went into Pontyclun Village with their geography questionnaires. The children were split into four groups and were spaced out all around Cowbridge Road, the shopping area of the village.

They interviewed shoppers in order to find out how they got to the village and to question them about their opinions of the new parking charges.

The shoppers were extremely cooperative and enjoyed talking to the children. Even local workmen were happy to spare five minutes to chat. We talked about how to politely approach shoppersbefore leaving school. (Communication Skills)

The children recorded their findings on their questionnaires. Many of the shoppers had strong opinions about the Community Centre parking charges.

Below we can see one child recording the data whilst another is on the look out for the next shopper.

Most shoppers found the questions interesting. It was surprising that many had noticed a change in the village (much busier) with regards to parking and traffic.

Below we can see a member of the kitchen staff from school being interviewed. She had just finished work. I wonder where she parked, or perhaps she lives locally. I wonder what her views about the new charges are.

Many of the children decided to go into the local businesess in order to ask shopkeepers' their opinions of the traffic/ parking situation. They were also keen to find out whether they walked to work or drove.

We had one group questioning shoppers outside the new Tesco Express. Interestingly, some of the shoppers entering Tesco didn't have time to stop and talk to the class members. Is this because they were parked where they shouldn't have been and needed to be quick? Why do you think they didn't park in the car park behind when they were only popping in?

All of J5 really enjoyed the lesson and many asked if they could question the villagers for longer!