Morocco Curriculum Links

To help highlight where a Morocco trip complements the Geography curriculum we’ve created this easy-to-use checklist:

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Water & rivers

What factors affect the water level of the rivers and oases? How have farmers maximised the amount of water available for irrigation and domestic use? What other water management strategies are used in arid environments? Look for evidence of water erosion processes in the spectacular Todra Gorge, carved by the Dades River.

Ecosystems

Compare the ecosystems of the High Atlas Mountains and Sahara desert. How have humans adapted to survive in these vastly different yet similarly hostile environments?

Rock landscapes & processes

From mountains to desert via the gorges and valleys of the foothills of the Jebel Sarhro, Morocco offers a phenomenal variety of rock landscapes and environments to enhance your classroom learning.

Weather & climate

Compare the weather in Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara desert. How do these weather systems interact, and to what extent is the climate of one region influenced by that of another?

Tourism

Tourism accounts for over 14% of Morocco’s GDP, and students have ample opportunity to see its impact on towns, cities and rural areas. Consider the social, economic and environmental impacts of mass tourism and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages on the communities. What impact is eco-tourism having?

Globalisation

See a ‘Berber pharmacy’, where natural plant extracts are used to treat a variety of ailments. How do these treatments compare to those in the UK?

Development

Contrast the desert trading towns of Agdz and Skoura to the former Foreign Legion towns Ouarzazate and Erfoud to see the French influence on development. How does the city of Marrakech compare? What impact has trade had on this area of Morocco? What are the opportunities for development in the Sahara desert?

Population & migration

Learn about the nomadic Berber people who have crossed the mountains and desert for centuries. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient village built on a former caravan route and stay in a desert camp at Merzouga! Compare their traditional lifestyles to modern life – how have they adapted?

Urban environments

Marrakech is a densely populated, bustling and vibrant city of great historical importance. Visit the Djemaa el Fna, Africa’s busiest square, to see great displays of traditional Moroccan culture, music and entertainment. Compare Marrakech with major European cities – what similarities and differences can be made when comparing culture?

Rural environments

In the rural areas of Valley du Dades and Jebels Sarhro, how have people adapted to living in such a difficult landscape? Students can consider aspects of inequality and disparity between urban and rural living, and study water supply, irrigation and water management systems in a rural context.

Sustainability

Learn about the reasons which have led to Morocco being considered one of Africa’s most sustainable destinations. With over 40% of the population surviving off agriculture, what measures have been put in place to protect the country’s resources?