Geography Department
Geography is the subject that holds the key to our future.” — Sir Michael Palin
Welcome to the Geography Department
Key Stage 3
In Key Stage 3, Geography covers a wide range of skills and knowledge that extends across both the physical and human aspects of the curriculum. All pupils have the opportunity to gain an understanding of place through map skills alongside general locational knowledge from a local through to a global scale. They will be taught their role as a global citizen by studying current issues such as climate change, poverty and waste management.
The physical world will be highlighted through natural disasters, river and coastal features and the dynamic nature of our weather. Case studies shall be relevant and make use of a wide range of multi-media resources available at the time.
"The study of Geography also encourages pupils to research and manage information, work effectively with others and use cross curricular skills. Key Stage 3 is an essential foundation for the GCSE specification."
GCSE
Pupils will follow the CCEA Geography specification which is supported by a range of up-to-date resources, including textbooks and revision guides. The specification is topical and relevant as the course includes physical and human geography.
Year 11: Unit 1 (Physical)
Focuses on physical geography processes and systems across four themes:
- › River management strategies
- › Coastal management strategies
- › Processes shaping our weather
- › Earthquakes and volcanic activity
Year 12: Unit 2 (Human)
Focuses on human geography across four themes:
- › Challenges facing refugees
- › Inner city issues
- › Strategies for sustainable development
- › Impact of increasing consumption
Fieldwork (Unit 3): Students have an opportunity to complete fieldwork at the end of Year 11/beginning of Year 12. Students apply the knowledge, understanding and skills gained Unit 1 or Unit 2.
Skills Developed
A-Level
The department follows the CCEA A Level Geography specification. This gives students a broad knowledge and understanding of the processes and challenges facing our world. This specification is taught at two levels: AS and A2.
AS Level: Students investigate physical and human geography themes. They explore the processes that shape weather, the relationships between population and resources or how to protect the countryside. They undertake fieldwork and develop their ability to gather, evaluate and present information.
A2 Level: Those who continue to A2 can explore plate tectonics, climate change, dynamic coastal environments or tropical ecosystems. They also investigate cultural geography, ethnic diversity or tourism. They develop decision-making skills and apply these in a real-world scenario.
Specification Units
| Level | Unit | Title |
|---|---|---|
| AS | 1 | Physical Geography |
| AS | 2 | Human Geography |
| AS | 3 | Fieldwork Skills and Techniques in Geography |
| A2 | 1 | Physical Processes, Landforms and Management |
| A2 | 2 | Processes and Issues in Human Geography |
| A2 | 3 | Decision Making in Geography |
Where to Next?
A Level Geography is considered a core subject by all the Russell Group universities. It can lead to a wide range of undergraduate courses and careers including Medicine, Teaching (Primary and Secondary), Engineering, Accountancy, Environmental Science, Dentistry, Nursing, Business/Management, Earth Sciences and the Military/Police Services.