Geography
Why study Geography?
Studying Geography offers a unique perspective on the world, blending physical landscapes with human interactions. It equips students with critical thinking skills to analyse complex global issues such as climate change, urbanisation, and resource management. By exploring spatial relationships and cultural diversity, Geography fosters a deeper understanding of societal challenges and environmental sustainability. Students emerge with valuable skills in data analysis, research, and communication, making them adaptable in various careers, from urban planning to environmental consultancy. Ultimately, studying Geography empowers individuals to engage with and shape the world around them, promoting informed citizenship and responsible stewardship of our planet.
Extra-curricular aspects of the course
The A Level Geography course requires students to undertake a minimum of 4 days field study. The department would anticipate a number of field trips both locally and nationally to meet this prerequisite with the possibility of a trip abroad to enhance the students understanding and enjoyment of the course.
Entry Requirements
A Grade 6 is preferred at Geography GCSE for students considering studying A Level Geography. For those who have not studied Geography at GCSE level, a Grade 6 in GCSE English or Grade 6 in Leisure & Tourism or Environmental Science is required.
Higher Education and Careers
A wide variety of universities offer Geography as a degree. These are often offered as a BSc, where the focus is on physical geography and related content or BA where human geography is the main area of study. Many universities also offer related degrees that closely link to the A Level content such as environmental management, geology and town planning. It is suggested students research universities fully to discover the wide range of courses available with Geography as one of their A Levels. Geography can lead to diverse careers, including urban planner, environmental consultant, GIS specialist, cartographer, climate scientist, travel manager, educator, and field researcher. These roles utilise geographic knowledge to address urban development, environmental sustainability, climate issues, and tourism, showcasing the versatility and relevance of geography in today’s job market.
Equipment required for the course
Standard equipment is required similar to other courses including general stationery and a calculator; a protractor and compass which will be used mainly when completing the fieldwork element. For field trips, students will have to undertake most research on foot so suitable footwear such as walking boots, waterproof coat and trousers and a rucksack are advisable. Specialist equipment is available from the department for fieldwork investigations.
Assessment
The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Geography consists of three externally examined papers and one coursework component. Students must complete all assessment in May/June in any single year.
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Paper 1 (Paper code: 9GE0/01) |
Paper 2 (Paper code: 9GE0/02) |
Paper 3 (Paper code: 9GE0/03) |
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Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes. 30% of the qualification. 105 Content overview: Tectonic Processes & Hazards Landscape Systems, Processes and Change – Coastal Landscapes and Change The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity and The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security. |
Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes. 30% of the qualification. 105 marks. Content overview: Globalisation Shaping Places –Regenerating Place Superpowers Global Development and Connections – Migration, Identity and Sovereignty
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Written examination: 2 hours and 15 minutes. 20% of the qualification. 70 Content overview: ● Players ● Attitudes and actions ● Futures and uncertainties. The synoptic investigation will |
Coursework: Independent Investigation (9GE0/04)
Non-examined assessment.
20% of the qualification.
70 marks
Content overview:
The student defines a question or issue for investigation, relating to the course studied and it may be either human, physical or integrated physical-human. The investigation will incorporate fieldwork data (collected individually or as part of a group) and own research and/or secondary data. The investigation report will evidence independent analysis and evaluation of data, presentation of data findings and extended writing.
Assessment overview: The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated. The student will produce a written report of 3000–4000 words.