Examination Board: AQA
Course Content
The new course focus on the understanding of processes in human and physical Geography and the links between the two. A wide range of contemporary studies are integral to the course. After all, “Geography is everything”. In addition, the teaching leads to the acquisition of a variety of skills: scientific understanding, investigative, cartographic, graphical, statistics and ICT.
Assessment
All units are assessed by examination.
In year 12 you will study core physical and human themes (hydrology and global population change) respectively, plus a range of options for Unit 1. The physical options are cold, coastal and hot deserts environments (only 2 will be studied). The human issue options are food supply, energy and health (only 2 will be studied). Unit 2 covers Applied Geography where a variety of geographical skills will be examined. These skills are taught as an integral part of Unit 1 paper and this is worth 15% of the overall marks. In exceptional circumstances these papers can be retaken during year 13. In the final year you will study three out of six themes—at least one from each of the disciplines (physical or human geography). They are: Plate tectonics and associated hazards; Weather and climate and associated hazards; Challenges facing ecosystems; World cities - evolution or revolution? Development and globalisation; Contemporary conflicts and challenges. Additionally you will take part in a major field work investigation.
Specific requirements
We would expect a student to have achieved a grade B in GCSE Geography and to have an average GCSE points score to be over 5, the higher the better. The course can be studied to advantage by those without GCSE Geography, as long as they show a positive approach from the outset and seek to keep abreast of background work.
Extra-Curricula activities
Students are encouraged to attend conferences designed to support studies of a range of topics. Field work investigations will take place in a variety of locations. These will involve additional costs but all travel and accommodation costs will be kept to a minimum
Costing
Two text books are required costing approx. £22 each
Magazine subscription costing £14 per year.
A residential field trip is planned to the Lake District at the end of year 12. The cost will be in the region of £275
