About the course:
Geography is the study of physical and human environments and how they interact together. It is delivered in the two disciplines of Physical and Human Geography and deals with a range of current topical global issues including global warming, tropical cyclones and global conflicts. AS and A2 Geography build on what is covered at GCSE Level and apply a range of detailed, current and topical case studies to core geographical concepts.
- Students study the systems, patterns and processes that take place along the course of a river
- Students study the physical and human causes of flooding and identify locations that are at risk from flooding and plan how to manage them e.g. New Orleans
- Students study coastal systems, patterns and processes and how the coast is protected and managed
- Students study the patterns and distribution of global food supply and how it is managed
- Students study energy issues identifying the key types of energy, how it can be sustained and the impact it has on the environment
Students are encouraged to:
- Develop and apply their understanding of geographical concepts and processes to understand and interpret the changing world
- Develop their awareness of the complexity of interactions within and between societies, economies, culture and environments at local and global scales
- Develop as global citizens who recognise the challenge of sustainability and the implications for their own and others’ lives
- Improve as critical and reflective learners aware of the importance of attitudes and values, including their own
- Become adept in the use of application of skills and technologies through their geographical studies
- Be inspired by the world around them, and gain enjoyment and satisfaction from their geographical studies
COURSE CONTENT – TWO WRITTEN PAPERS
Unit 1 - Population Change
One written paper 2 hours. 70% of AS
(35% of overall A Level marks)
Unit 2 - Geographical Skills
One written paper 1 hour. 30% of AS
(15% of overall A Level marks)
COURSE CONTENT – TWO WRITTEN PAPERS
Unit 3 - Plate Tectonics and Associated Hazards.
Ecosystems: Challenge and Change
Conflict and Challenges
One written paper 2 hours 30 min.
30% of overall A Level marks
Unit 4 - Geographical Issue Evaluation
Analysis, synthesis and evaluation of pre-released material
Analysis and evaluation of fieldwork
One written paper 1 hour 30 min.
20% of overall A Level marks
Past students have gone on to study Geography at university, as either a science or in the arts faculties. Your skills of data analysis, interpretation and your ability to present logical arguments all match the skills required in today’s workplace. Employers recognise the abilities A Level Geographers possess. A geographical background is beneficial in the following careers:
crime intelligence analyst; travel writer; environmental manager; teacher and environmental planning.
“I chose to study for AS / A level Geography after enjoying this field through GCSE and lower school. I particularly enjoyed physical Geography, learning about how the world functions. In my current studies I have realised the importance of human geography and its relevance in the world today. I particularly enjoyed the fieldwork studies. After finishing my A level studies I wish to continue higher education at university, utilising skills and understandings I have developed through this subject”.
“I chose Geography because I wanted to study something new and interesting after not studying it at GCSE. I now believe that I made a very good choice as I enjoy both the human and physical sides of the subject very much. I find the wonders of the world fascinating and in Geography you discover how they all work, making it a great subject to study. Hopefully after completing the course I intend to further my education at university in which I will study engineering and in particular construction management”.