Geography KS2 & KS3: Expedition to Guyana - life in the rainforest

In the sixteenth century, Sir Walter Raleigh began his search for El Dorado in Guyana's rainforest.

Four hundred years on and a group of young adventurers from the UK - the Serious Explorers - are following in his footsteps.

The rainforest in Guyana is a place that has hardly changed since Raleigh’s day and remains one of the few areas of unspoilt jungle anywhere in the world.

The whole jungle is in a delicate state of balance in which all plants, insects and animals depend on each other.

There are thousands of different species all living together under the forest canopy, with many of them being extremely dangerous.

This clip is from the series Seriously Raleigh.

Teacher Notes

This clip could be used as an introduction to a study of rainforests. Initially, the clip could be paused on the world map to highlight the location of the main rainforests.

Discuss the way in which their geographical location creates certain climatic conditions (high rainfall, high temperatures, humidity) which in turn provide ideal conditions for verdant, lush jungles.

Throughout the remainder of the clip, pupils could take notes about the sights, sounds, conditions and creatures that the children come across or experience on their expedition.

After discussing their notes, pupils could write imaginary diary entries, as if they were members of Sir Walter Raleigh's original team.

They should convey the atmosphere of the forest, explain the variety of species discovered and advise readers of the dangers and wonders of this environment.

Curriculum Notes

This clip is suitable for teaching Geography at KS2 and KS3 Level in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and at 2nd and 3rd Level in Scotland.

More from Seriously Raleigh:

The Serious Explorers must learn how to stay safe whilst retracing Raleigh's route to Guyana.

Expedition safety

The explorers meet the region's most endangered animals, the caiman and the harpy eagle.

Expedition to Guyana - endangered animals in the rainforest

The Serious Explorers have come to Mount Roraima to relive the legend of Raleigh.

Expedition to Guyana - exploring Mount Roraima

Extraordinary and stunning views of the imposing and magnificent Mount Roraima. Aerial views capture the magnificence of the mountain.

Expedition to Guyana - Mount Roraima (no narration)

The Serious Explorers team are recreating Sir Walter Raleigh's ocean journey in search of El Dorado. They spend four days at sea learning about navigation tools.

Expedition to Guyana - navigating an ocean journey

The Serious Explorers have taken almost a year to plan an expedition to recreate his journey. We see their planning process.

Expedition to Guyana - planning an expedition

Views of the rivers running through the rainforest of Guyana and a glimpse into the ways in which the rivers support Guyana's rainforest communities.

Expedition to Guyana - rivers and waterfalls (no narration)

The Serious Explorers spend a night in the Guyana rainforest. The UK adventurers learn to make shelters and set animal traps.

Expedition to Guyana - spending a night in the rainforest

The explorers join in a traditional Makushi celebration and go hunting with the tribesmen, relying on their help.

Expedition to Guyana - the Makushi tribespeople

The Serious Explorers try using traditional canoes like the ones Raleigh’s team would have used over four hundred years ago.

Expedition to Guyana - transportation for local tribespeople