Faculty of Humanities

Geography

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Guide to GCSE Geography (AQA)

Geography is the study of the world about us and the course aims to provide an interest in our environment and the way that we treat or mistreat it. It is forever changing and so the course makes use of the very latest issues from dramatic landslides and floods to the effect of government policy and the building of a new road. Sustainability is a key theme.

Physical and Human aspects of geography are studied through such areas as:

growth and development of settlements
people and their economic activities chiefly in agriculture
evaluation of the landscape which includes rocks, coasts and rivers
environmental systems and their management

There are a wide variety of geographical and general skills that are developed from KS3 knowledge and understanding as well as the introduction of more advanced concepts. The final examination which accounts for 75% of the grade tests these acquired skills and gives the opportunity to use case study material to produce longer written answers. Case studies are drawn from all parts of the world, and involve both small scale examples as well as global concepts. The two final papers are fairly evenly balanced. One is concerned with the physical aspects of the course along with the use of O S maps, while the other tackles the more human side of the course.

Coursework involves an original piece of research and accounts for 25% of the final grade. This is based on residential fieldwork which is undertaken at the beginning of Year 11 and costs about £75.00. It gives you the opportunity to investigate a geographical problem or issue. You will receive structured guidance from staff in the planning and execution of the task, plus help from fellow students with the collection of data. Mini deadlines are set during the course of the project to help you plan your time carefully as it is not completed until November in Year 11. There is the opportunity to do a locally based task if this is preferred.

The investigative approach to the subject means that it combines well with Science subjects at higher levels while the understanding and empathy with people and environment blends well with the Arts subjects. The use of ICT is encouraged particularly in relation to coursework.

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