*A-Level Geography Project* --- *Title:* *"Flooding Risk and Drainage Challenges in School Environments: A Case Study of [Your School Name]"* --- *Stage 1: Problem Identification* *Problem Description:* During heavy rains, many urban schools experience flooding due to poor drainage systems, causing damage to buildings, interrupted lessons, and health hazards. At [Your School], several areas become waterlogged after rainfall, leading to muddy grounds, blocked paths, and mosquito breeding grounds. *Statement of Intent:* This project aims to assess flood-prone zones within the school, evaluate the effectiveness of current drainage infrastructure, and propose practical improvements based on geographical analysis and sustainable planning. *Design Specifications:* - Identify and map flood-prone zones. - Measure rainfall and runoff patterns. - Analyze drainage capacity and blockages. - Assess impacts of flooding on school operations. - Propose site-specific drainage improvements. --- *Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas* - *Relevant Concepts:* - Urban hydrology - Land use and infiltration - Environmental management Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) - *Related Studies:* - Case study: Flooding in Harare high-density suburbs (e.g., Glen View). - Study from South Africa: School infrastructure vulnerability to climate change. - *Key Findings from Other Studies:* - Schools with better land cover (grass, trees) reduce surface runoff. - Unplanned construction and litter clog drainage systems. --- *Stage 3: Generation of Ideas* - Conduct a *site survey* to identify low-lying, flooded areas. - Use *topographic sketches* to highlight drainage flow direction. - Interview staff about recurring issues during rains. - Test *soil permeability* in different school zones. - Explore green solutions: planting grass, digging shallow drains, rainwater harvesting. --- *Stage 4: Development of Ideas* *Week 1–2:* Collect primary data: identify flood zones, record rainfall, observe existing drainage. *Week 3–4:* Map water flow and create drainage diagrams. Conduct interviews. Photograph affected areas. *Week 5–6:* Analyze data using infiltration rate calculations and drainage capacity estimates. *Week 7–8:* Develop solutions: better drain placement, using natural slopes, rain gardens, and gravel paths. --- *Stage 5: Presentation of Results* - *Maps and Diagrams:* School layout showing flood-prone areas. - Drainage paths and proposed improvement zones. - *Charts:* - Rainfall vs. water accumulation graphs. - Survey responses on impact. - *Photographic Evidence:* Before and after rain, showing damage and water stagnation. - *Table:* - Summary of issues, causes, and proposed interventions. --- *Stage 6: Evaluation and Recommendations* *Evaluation:* - The school’s current drainage system is inadequate and poorly maintained. - Blocked gutters and flat surfaces increase flood risk. - Students and staff identified disruptions in movement and classroom access. *Recommendations:* 1. Clean and repair existing drains regularly. 2. Install shallow trench drains in key waterlogging areas. 3. Add grass cover and vegetation to increase infiltration. 4. Educate students on keeping drainage paths clear. 5. Advocate for municipal support in stormwater planning. --- *Conclusion:* Flooding in school environments reflects poor land and water management, even in small urban areas. Through this project, Geography proves useful in assessing environmental risks and providing low-cost, practical solutions to improve safety, hygiene, and learning conditions.