Geography

Introduction

Geography is the study of the earth’s form – its physical features, climate, population and economic activities.  It includes such topics as the formation of landforms, natural hazards, population and settlement and tourism.

 

What will it be like?

Geography is a good subject choice for people considering a career or university course in a variety of fields and is also a stimulating way of extending the knowledge and understanding of those students whose main interests lie elsewhere.

Geographers work in almost every field of employment.  The subject contains all the skills that employers find most important, including: Communication skills, decision making, problem solving, data analysis, teamwork and flexibility.

Areas of study will include:

  • Living with the physical environment.

The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the processes and forms associated with tectonic, geomorphological, biological and meteorological processes in different environments, and the need for management strategies governed by sustainability and consideration of the direct and indirect effects of human interaction with the Earth and the atmosphere. Topics include: The challenge of natural hazards, Physical landscapes in the UK and   The living world.

  • Challenges in the human environment

This unit is concerned with human processes, systems and outcomes and how these change both spatially and temporally. The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the factors that produce a diverse variety of human environments; the dynamic nature of these environments that change over time and place; the need for sustainable management; and the areas of current and future challenge and opportunity for these environments. Topics include Urban issues and challenges, The changing economic world and The challenge of resource management

Assessment

Assessment is in the form of three examinations

  • Paper 1 Living with the physical environment.  Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes. (35% of the total marks)
  • Paper 2 Challenges in the human environment. Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes. (35% of the total marks)
  • Paper 3 Geographical applications. Written Paper: 1 hour 15 minutes. (30%of the total marks) where pupils are assessed on Issue evaluation, Fieldwork, and Geographical skills.