Lesson Plan

• Describe the key characteristics of horizontal and vertical urban structures.
• Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each structure type.
• Identify the main urban land‑use zones and their typical functions.
• Apply the population‑density formula to explain why vertical development is needed.
• Evaluate how horizontal and vertical structures can coexist in a modern city.

• Projector and screen for slides/diagrams
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed handout of urban‑structure models and land‑use zone diagram
• Worksheet with comparison table and density‑calculation tasks
• Laptop with internet access for interactive map examples

Begin with a striking aerial photograph of a dense city skyline contrasted with a sprawling suburban map to hook interest. Ask students what they notice about the way space is used in each image, linking to prior knowledge of city centres and suburbs. Explain that today they will explore how cities organise space horizontally and vertically and set the success criteria: students will be able to describe, compare, and apply these concepts.

1. Do‑now (5') – Quick recall questions on classic urban models displayed on the board.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain horizontal structures (concentric, sector, multiple‑nuclei) with diagrams.
3. Group activity (10') – Analyse a case‑city map to identify horizontal patterns and label zones.
4. Mini‑lecture (10') – Introduce vertical structures, show skyscraper examples and vertical zoning.
5. Comparison task (10') – Complete a Venn diagram comparing horizontal vs vertical structures; discuss pros/cons.
6. Land‑use zone exploration (10') – Using the handout, label zones on a cross‑section diagram and calculate population density for a given area.
7. Check for understanding (5') – Short quiz (Kahoot or show of hands) on key concepts.
8. Summary & exit ticket (5') – Students write one insight and one lingering question on a sticky note before leaving.

Recap the main differences between horizontal and vertical urban structures and how they relate to land‑use zones and population density. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a brief homework: students must find a local example of vertical development and explain which land‑use zone it belongs to using the concepts learned.