The document discusses how the local environment in London will change for the 2012 Olympics. It focuses on the Olympic site and the surrounding area of Newham. The Olympics will regenerate a large area of land by creating one of the largest urban parks in Europe and restoring natural waterways. This will improve the environment but some debate whether the changes will benefit local residents. The document includes activities for students to consider both sides of this issue through interactive maps, videos, and a debate role play.

1. Dimensions London 2012 Lesson 2 Imagining Place Will the local environement be better? Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

2. Starter: Mapping the changes Use the interactive map to explore the Olympic site and the wider area. How do you think the changes will affect local people and the local environment? Use the interactive map to label the new Olympic buildings and changes land use on a map extract or the area. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

3. Main Part Imaging the Olympic Park Did you know? The Olympic torch is a symbol of the Olympic Games. The torch is then transported to the host city of the upcoming Olympics by a torch relay. The runners have included athletes and celebrities. The Olympic Torch Relay ends on the day of the opening ceremony in the central stadium of the Games. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

4. Main Part Over to you in the Olympic Park… The moment London has been waiting for. The Olympic torch passes the crowd on the way into the stadium. The noise of the crowd roars as the London 2012 Olympics is about to be opened. You are live to air for BBC radio London. Describe the scene in the Olympic park. What can you see and hear? What does it feel like to be there? Use the image here to help you describe the scene on air. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

5. Main Part Amazing changes How much will the local environment change by 2012? Watch the video showing progress towards completion of the Olympic site. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

6. Main Part How much will the local environment change by 2012? The 2012 Olympic site will improve the environment of a large area of London. The improvements will include: The Lea valley will be converted into one of the largest urban parks created in Europe in 150 years. The natural river system of the valley will be restored, canals would be dredged and waterways widened. Birdwatchers and ecologists will be able to enjoy three hectares of new wetland habitat. The Olympic park itself will be used for recreation after the Olympics Is it what the local people want? Plan a meeting for the local community. Use the Fact sheet about Newham Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

8. Plenary How much will the local environment change by 2012? In groups decide if you think the Olympic Games will benefit the local people of Newham. A spokesperson from each group should feedback the group’s decision to the rest of the class. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?

9. Homework How much will the local environment change by 2012? Download the table and summarise the advantages and disadvantages of the Games coming East London from what you have heard during the debate. Key Questions How will the environment change? Will the changes bring improvements to quality of the environment and quality of life of local residents?