Geography

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE A LEVEL GEOGRAPHY?

Geography aims to provide you with an understanding of the dynamics that shape the physical, economic and social aspects of the world in which you live.  If you are curious about the world, you will enjoy Geography.  It is one of the few subjects at this level that bridges the gap between arts and science subjects, so fits in with any combination.  Geography is highly valued by universities and is one of the eight facilitating subjects which open up more university options.

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

The course is mainly designed around the study of physical and human Geography, covering topics as diverse as water and carbon cycles, hazards, global systems and contemporary urban environments.  Students will study six topics over the two years and complete a Geographical Investigation.

HOW WILL I LEARN?

Class based work will provide the basis for learning.  Given the nature of the subject, a great amount of teaching and learning will involve research and the development of interpretative and analytical skills. Students will learn to interpret data involving graphical, cartographic (map) and statistical information. Over the two years, students will also complete four days of fieldwork investigations.  

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

Geography is unusual in that it develops both literacy and numeracy skills to a high level. Candidates will develop interpretative and analytical skills related to data in cartographic, graphical and statistical format.  There will be an emphasis on the use and interpretation of more advanced statistical techniques such as correlation, Chi squared and descriptive statistics.  In addition, students will develop the ability to write full essay length, synoptic answers to questions on physical and human Geography topics.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

The assessment will be split up into two examination papers and a piece of coursework. Each paper will last 2 hours 30 minutes and will account for 40% of the final A Level.  The questions will vary between multiple choice, short answers and extended prose.  The individual investigation is a 3000-4000 word assignment, worth 20%, based on a question or issue defined by them. 

WHAT CAN A QUALIFICATION IN GEOGRAPHY LEAD TO?

Many students continue to university to study Geography, Geology, environmental subjects or Materials Science. Due to its human focus, Geography is also a good supporting subject for others such as Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, and Economics.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in GCSE Geography.
We will accept applications from students who do not have GCSE Geography if they have a grade 7 or higher in GCSE English.