Sixth Form Handbook 2022-24

GEOGRAPHY

Course content and structure Component 1: Physical Geography The study of core physical concepts including the water and carbon cycles, fluvial and coastal environments, and natural hazards such as rivers, volcanoes and earthquakes Component 2: Human Geography An issues-based approach to contemporary human topics including globalisation and super powers, urbanisation and world cities, and the changing nature of place Component 3: Geographical Investigation Pupils submit a piece of coursework which is externally moderated and contributes to their final A-Level grade. The coursework is based upon organised fieldwork which includes a compulsory trip to Manchester to study urban regeneration and retail change.

Assessment overview Component 1: 2½ hour written examination (40% of A-Level)

Component 2: 2½ hour written examination (40% of A-Level)

Component 3: Coursework of 4000 words (20% of A-Level) Fieldwork

In LVI, pupils undertake urban fieldwork which involves a residential visit to Manchester, and physical fieldwork which involves a more local investigation. ICT Pupils will have the opportunity to use Geographical Information Systems (GIS). GIS is an interactive computer programme designed to allow pupils to analyse spatial relationships between sets of data. It encourages pupils to think laterally about problems and make links between geographical concepts and places.

University and careers links At university level, Geography can be taught as a single subject or as part of a combination. Common disciplines studied with Geography include Social Anthropology, Biology, Economics, Environmental Science and Urban Planning. There is room to specialise on most university courses and many encourage students to become established human or physical geographers during their final year. Geography provides a unique view of the world; it encourages a broad and synoptic outlook, challenges assumptions and inspires forward thinking. Geography graduates engage critically and imaginatively with the world and, therefore, are considered highly employable.

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