Geography
SUBJECT INTRODUCTION
Head of Department: Ms Hickling
Our vision: To foster a thirst for geographical knowledge; develop skilled geographers and; enhance understanding of the world and their place in it.
Geography is dynamic, creative and challenging, the department aims to replicate that in class for all students. Through endeavour for excellence, we challenge our students to take what they know and build on it; expand it; and continually critique it.
Throughout Key Stage 5, ‘A’ Level students study how our world has changed from the past to the present and how it may change in the future. This is achieved through the study of a range of topics.
THE CURRICULUM
At A Level students follow the AQA specification. The syllabus offers students a revitalised perspective on Geography.
The programme of study we have planned looks at contemporary real-life issues in world Geography. The AQA specification is based on the belief that Geography is about:
- exploring the principles, concepts and processes that describe and explain geographical phenomena and landscapes;
- spatial awareness, location and a sense of place;
- developing knowledge and understanding of both physical and human geography;
- achieving an understanding of the complex inter-relationships between people and environment.
In addition it attempts to:
- ensure topics have relevance to the modern world and the challenges and opportunities engaging young people today;
- ensure individual/group research/investigation (including fieldwork) retains a significant role in the subject
- maintain a link with previous AQA specifications so as to allow use of existing teaching and learning resources/approaches
Pupils also develop a variety of geographical skills, which broaden and deepen existing knowledge and be employed with a greater degree of independence.
Topics covered in Year 12
Autumn Term:
Year 12
Population and the environment
- The conflict between people and nature
- Health and well-being
- Population change
- Principles of population ecology applied to human populations
- The future of global population
Hazards
- The concept of hazard in a geographical context
- Volcanic hazards
- Seismic hazards
- Tropical storms
- Fires in nature
Changing Places
- The nature and importance of places
- Relationships and connections
- Meaning and representations
- Representations of place and the use of quantitative and qualitative sources
- Place studies
Glacial Systems and Landscapes
- Intro to glacial systems
- The nature and distribution of cold environments
- Processes involved in glacial landscapes and glaciers
- Human occupation and development
Non-examined Assessment
-
4000 word, independent research project
Year 13
Water and Carbon Cycles
- Systems and frameworks
- The Cryosphere, Atmosphere, Lithosphere and Hydrosphere
- Water, carbon, climate and life on earth
Global Systems and Governance
- Globalisation
- International Trade
- The United Nations, World Trade Organisation, International Monetary Fund etc
- Global Commons - conflict for resources
Antarctica Case Study
ENRICHMENT & EXTRA-CURRICULAR
A diverse range of exciting fieldwork opportunities that support and enhance the curriculum are offered, including residential visits. Year 12 pupils spend four days in Iceland investigating the physical geography of the country.
Careers
Geography at Advanced Level in the Sixth Form is a successful option. Local colleges also offer BTEC courses in Travel and Tourism at Key Stage 5. Careers that geography is particularly useful for include planning, surveying, teaching, environmental protection and numerous types of job within the construction and energy sectors.
Exam board
Exam Board: AQA Geography
Course Code: 7037
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/geography/as-and-a-level/geography-7037
Specification:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/geography/as-and-a-level/geography-7037
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/geography/as-and-a-level/geography-7037/assessment-resources
Textbooks and Revision Resources
- Hodder A Level Text Book
- CGP Revision Guides
- https://www.cgpbooks.co.uk/Parent/books_a_level_geography.book_GAR72
- Radio 4 podcasts
- Intelligence Squared podcasts
- Cool Geography
- http://www.coolgeography.co.uk/
- Geography Review
- School Library – 6th Form section
There are a number of ways that you can find out more about studying Geography. These include:
- Teachers at your school
- Students who are already studying the subject
- Develop geographical skills by planning journeys and routes on the OS Mapzone.
- CCEA
- Geographical Association
- Royal Geographical Society
- Careers advisor
- Library
- UCAS or CAO for details on entry requirements for university courses
