Geography
In geography you will study the interaction between the human and physical world, covering many of the issues that are in the news every day, such as conflict and natural hazards. You will develop a wide range of skills and have the opportunity to carry out your own research in the field.
Course Structure
The course follows the AQA A-Level Geography specification. Assessment is based entirely on exams. Although there is no coursework candidates will be expected to carry out a research project, which they will write about in the exam. In both years the skills exam is taken in January and the core paper will be taken in June.
| AS Unit Title and Description | Assessment Method and Weighting |
|---|---|
| GEOG1 – Physical and Human Geography Core
Options
NB. It may be possible to study other options from the specification. | 2 hours written examination Short and extended questions 120 marks; 4 sections (one on each topic) AS Level – 70% |
GEOG2 – Geographical Skills
Candidates will be required to describe and explain their fieldwork projects, draw and interpret graphs and perform calculations. | 1 hour written examination Short answer questions. 50 marks; 2 sections (skills and fieldwork) with equal weighting given to both sections. Skills questions are based on the 2 core units. AS Level – 30% |
| A2 Unit Title and Description | Assessment Method and Weighting |
GEOG3 – Contemporary Geographical Issues
NB. It may be possible to study other options from the specification. These include World Cities, Ecosystems and Weather and Climate | 2 hours 30 minutes written examination Short and extended questions, plus one essay 90 marks; 3 sections (one on each topic) A Level – 30% |
| GEOG4a – Geography Fieldwork Investigation | 1 hour 30 minutes written examination Short and extended questions60 marks; 2 sections (skills and fieldwork) with more weighting being given to fieldwork section. A Level – 20% |
Course Content
At AS candidates will study the physical processes governing rivers, the human processes of migration and population change and major health issues such as HIV. They will participate in fieldwork at a local river and learn a range of skills in cartography, statistics and ICT. Students will also have the fantastic opportunity to visit the edge of the Sahara as part of the unit on deserts.
At A2 candidates will learn about conflicts such as those in Darfur and Palestine/Israel as well as more local issues such as wind energy on the Isle of Wight. They will study the global influence of TNCs and explore the nature of tectonic hazards using a range of recent case studies.
Career Opportunities
Geography is a highly attractive A-level to both universities and employers as it provides you with a broad range of transferable skills and geographical knowledge that overlaps with other subject areas. Geography can be used to progress onto a wide range of careers including those in conservation, travel, business, aid work, the armed forces and hazard management.
Entry Requirements
We require candidates to have the standard Sixth Form entry criteria, including GCSE English and Maths. We strongly advise a Grade B in Geography although we will accept committed students with a C. Candidates should be aware that they will required to carry out basic statistical analysis and will also be marked on their written English in the exam.
Costs
Candidates must purchase a basic maths set including a scientific calculator, a protractor, ruler and pair of compasses. They also need to bring pens, pencils, rubbers, a lever arch file and paper to their lessons in order to take notes and organise their work.
Students will be required to attend a compulsory field trip in the first term at a cost of £40. They will need suitable footwear, a rucksack, and warm/waterproof clothes.
Candidates will have the opportunity to join a field trip abroad, which may cost around £400 to £600.
Links
- Course Specification : web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/humanities/geography_noticeboard.php
- F6RM Geography Blog : f6rmgeogblog.blogspot.com/
- Royal Geographical Society (information on studying geography at all levels and careers advice): http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Study+Geography/Study/Home.htm
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