Geography is the study of people, places and the relationships between them. It provides students with the means to interpret and understand the complexities of the environment around us and the many issues facing us today.

Geography is taught in mixed ability form groups throughout Key Stage 3 and also in mixed ability groups at Key Stage 4.

The acquisition and application of practical skills are important elements in the subject at all levels and these are integrated in the work. Students participate in several field trips in Key Stages 3 and 4.

At GCSE, topics include restless earth, battle for the biosphere, climate and change, water world, extreme climates, population dynamics, living spaces, changing cities and development dilemmas. Students participate in a fieldwork trip to assist them in preparation for their controlled assessment.

The AS/A2 course will enable students to develop a knowledge and understanding of the key concepts of place, space, diversity, interdependence, people, environment interaction, the processes associated with these and change over time. Students will investigate the ‘World at risk and Going Global’ at AS, alongside Geographical investigations into crowded coasts, and the rebranding of places. At A2 students will study topics to include; Water conflicts, Biodiversity, ‘Superpower Geographies’, the Development Gap and Technological fix, as well as an in-depth study of a theme from a selection from the exam board. Students will carry out research and fieldwork at AS with some fieldwork opportunities.

Course Content

This course is designed to develop a sound understanding and knowledge of geographical issues and develop and use geographical skills.

AS

Topics of study include

Unit 1: Global challenges - The meaning, causes, impacts and management of global challenges.
Topic 1: World at Risk – natural hazards & climate change
Topic 2: Going Global – globalisation & population & migration

Unit 2: Geographical investigations – A closer look at how physical and human issues influence lives and can be managed. A fieldwork investigation undertaken in this unit.
Topic 1: Crowded coasts – how is development testing our ability to manage these valued environments?
Topic 2: Rebranding places – How can we re-image and regenerate urban areas?

A2

Unit 3: Contested planet – A closer look at the use and management of our key resources.

Topic 1: Energy Security
Topic 2: Water Conflicts
Topic 3: Biodiversity Under Threat
Topic 4: Superpower Geographies
Topic 5: Development Gap
Topic 6: Technological Fix

Unit 4: Geographical research – Tectonic Activity and Hazards

Coursework

Learning Methods and Assessment

The course is taught by physical and human geography specialists, and involves a variety of approaches to learning. Students are encouraged to discuss their ideas and those of others and to think critically about their views. Students will be expected to read widely in order to research topics, to develop their comprehension and knowledge of material discussed in class and to write geographical essays; and data response exercises will be given. Students will be given the opportunity to develop their Key Skills.

AS and A2

The use of statistical methods and the collection and analysis of data is an integral part of the course and several fieldwork days are organised both in AS and A2. In addition, students may also attend sixth form conferences for geographers. Assessment involves written exams (including structured, extended prose and skills questions) and an externally assessed project.

Resources

Clubs/Activities

Expectations of Students

Students in geography are expected to prepare thoroughly for lessons, and participate in class discussions, presentations and group activities. They should also have a general interest in the world around them and be prepared to carry out independent background reading and keep up to date with current issues.

Careers Implications

Modern Geography is a very broad subject and it combines happily with subjects from both the Arts and Sciences. The skills, knowledge and attitudes developed in Geography are highly regarded by employers and universities.

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