Geography
Geography is a contemporary subject which explicitly engages with the relationship of the human populations to each other over space and time and their relationship with their physical environment at a variety of scales from the local to the global.
A Level Geography is a popular choice for students and results have been very good. The specification allows students to prepare well for university with both content and skills, but also develops their knowledge and understanding as global citizens.
Exam Board | AQA | Please click here |
Minimum GCSE Grade Requirements | Grade 6 in Geography and Grade 5 in English Language or Literature. |
Future Opportunities
Successful completion of the course means that students are both literate and numerate, with the ability to synthesise information and write both logically and coherently as well as analyse statistical, geographical and cartographic information and data. All of which is highly valued by employers and universities.
"I chose geography both because I enjoyed it at GCSE and because it’s interesting! I love the subject because you learn about physical/human changes and how they are impacting us currently, the knowledge you acquire is all relevant and applicable to today. Geography also links in to other subjects; sciences, economics, business. So there are lots of different elements to study and enjoy - a topic for everyone." Amber Year 12
"My decision to chose geography was influenced by the high success rates at A Level. The department has proved to be very supportive. The subject interests me because its current and relevant to everything that is happening around us now." Alice Year 12
Course Content & Assessment
Course Content
The new specification has 3 components -
- Component 1: Physical geography, studying the core 'Water & carbon cycles' as well as optional units of 'Coastal systems and landscapes' and 'Hazards'. This is assessed in a written exam in 2 hours & 30 minutes, worth 120 marks & 40% of the A-level.
- Component 2: Human geography, studying 'Global systems & global governance', 'Changing places' and 'Population & the environment’'. Assessed the same as component 1.
- Component 3: Geography fieldwork investigation and is an individual piece of work between 3,000-4,000 words, worth 60 marks and 20% of the A level.
Fieldwork is another essential part of the new A Level and there will be at least 4 days covering the human & physical elements.
There is also the option of an overseas residential trip during the course which has in the past included China and Iceland, and Sri Lanka.
Assessment
80% written examinations and 20% coursework
Two written exams at the end of Year 13 and a Non-Examined Assessment completed at the start of year 13. Mock exams are in year 12 and year 13, as well as regular assessments and practice questions.
ENRICHMENT AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR
At A Level students have to complete 4 days of fieldwork, this is usually a 2 day residential in Dorset studying Barton-on-Sea and Studland Bay and then a day trip to Birmingham and Kings Cross London.
There is also an ‘Awe & Wonder’ trip every two years in the February. In the past this has taken us to China, Sri Lanka and Iceland!
Geography Department
| Subject Leader | Mrs L Jones (Parental Leave) |
| Acting Subject Leader | Mr J Stirling |
| Miss B Lawton | |
| Mr I Rogers (Assistant Headteacher) | |
| Mrs L Williams (Deputy Headteacher) |