Advanced Higher Geography

Topic Areas

The Advanced Higher Geography course covers three main units of differing size, which rely on pupils' knowledge from Higher and, with an emphasis on choice and independent folio work, aims to increase their awareness of the world around us. Skills taught build on map work done from National 5 and Higher, whilst new additions of statistical techniques and methods of data gathering/processing help prepare pupils for the transition into further education .


Unit 1 - Map Interpretation

  • Pupils use their existing map work knowledge (similar to Application of Skills at Higher level) to analyse and evaluate the impacts of a proposed development.


Unit 2 - Gathering and Processing Techniques

  • Pupils demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of gathering and processing techniques in the context of research/fieldwork, then analyse and evaluate data that would be obtained as a result of using those techniques.


Unit 3 - Geographical Data Handling

  • Pupils learn to interpret and analyse given sets of data, including statistical data, then evaluate their effectiveness in order to explain geographical relationships.


The above units combine to form the Advanced Higher Geography exam (50 marks in timed SQA exam conditions - 2hrs 30mins), worth 30% of pupils' final grade. The main emphasis of the course, therefore, is the folio.


Unit 4 - Folio

The folio consists of two parts:

  • Geographical Study - 60 marks (worth 40% of final grade)

  • Geographical Issues Essay - 40 marks (worth 30% of final grade)


For the Geographical Study, pupils choose their topic and undertake relevant fieldwork in their own time. The Study is facilitated by teachers but it is the pupils' opportunity to demonstrate the application of skills learned throughout their years of studying this subject, knowledge and understanding through undertaking independent research. In their Study, pupils will use statistical techniques learned in the first 3 units, alongside applying a range of gathering and processing techniques already studied.


For the Geographical Issues Essay, pupils choose a geography-related topical issue that they are interested in. They undertake independent research to find three professional articles linked to the topic and learn how to summarise their key points. Pupils then critically evaluate each article, backing up their evaluations with background reading on the topic. Though very pupil-led, teachers will facilitate and advise/support throughout this piece of work.

Both the Study and Essay are sent away to the SQA to be externally marked.


Skills

The Advanced Higher Geography course further knowledge of pupils' chosen topics for their folio as well as further developing skills in fieldwork techniques and data processing. These are all key components of the Advanced Higher course and have a strong emphasis on expanding on explanations and backing up points made with references to background reading. The course also focuses on developing critical thinking skills throughout along with literacy, numeracy and ICT skills.


Assessment

Pupils will be regularly assessed on course knowledge via timed past paper questions. Prelims will take place at the beginning of Term 3, with a top-up prelim once the course is finished towards the end of Term 3.


The Advanced Higher Geography exam is worth 50 marks and is complete in 2hrs 30mins.


Progression

Progression from Advanced Higher Geography will lead into further education once pupils have left school. If choosing to study Geography at university, the skills learned and statistical techniques studied at this level will form part of the university degree.