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Why should I choose Geography?
By studying Geography, you will develop as an effective and independent learner and as a critical thinker with an enquiring mind. You will gain knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts such as sustainable development and interdependence and how these concepts affect our changing world. Geography will help you develop as a global citizen able to recognise how you can contribute to a future that is sustainable and inclusive.
Through the study of Geography, you will develop an appreciation of the differences and similarities between people’s views of the world, and its environment, societies and cultures. You will gain an understanding of the significance of values and attitudes related to the development and resolution of issues such as climate change. Geography is not just a classroom subject: you will have opportunities to develop and apply your learning to the real world through participation in fieldwork and other learning outside the classroom.
Geography is important because understanding our planet, it’s people and it’s processes will enable us to preserve and protect it for future generations. What is more important than that?
How will I be assessed in this subject?
Course Content
3 External papers
Paper 1 40% - exam taken at the end of Year 11
Paper 2 40% - exam taken at the end of Year 12
Paper 3 20% - exam taken at the end of Year 11
Complete fieldwork activity on the River Shimna which carries 20% of your overall GCSE.
What Will I study?
Unit 1: Understanding our Natural World - 40%
Unit 1: Understanding our Natural World - 40%
Theme A: River Environments
(Rivers features and processes).
Theme B: Coastal Environments
(Coastal features and processes).
Theme C: Our Changing Weather and Climate;
(Causes of weather in the British Isles and impact on people).
Theme D: The Restless Earth;
(The structure of the earth and earthquakes and volcanoes).
Unit 2:
Unit 2:
Living in Our World - 40%
Living in Our World - 40%
Theme A: Population and Migration;
(Issues relating to people and migration).
Theme B: Changing Urban Areas;
(MEDC/LEDC cities and Urbanisation)
Theme C: Contrasts in World Development;
(The differences in development between rich and poor countries).
Theme D: Managing Our Resources.
(The impact of increasing use of resources on the environment).
Unit 3:
Unit 3:
Fieldwork - 20%
Fieldwork - 20%
Complete fieldwork on the River Shimna and write up results in exam
What career paths are available to me if I study this subject?
You will gain skills and knowledge that will allow you to understand more about places and people. Geography skills are highly valued by a range of employers. So you could apply these skills in the fields of business, travel and leisure, the Civil Service, weather forecasting, teaching, town planning, media, environmental agencies and law.
After studying GCSE Geography, you may go on to study Geography at A Level or a course in Travel and Tourism. There is a world of opportunities that Geography can take you to.
Extra Curricular Activities
If you choose GCSE Geography, you may have the opportunity to take part in the following activities:
Complete fieldwork on the River Shimna and Newcastle
Develop your skills in field sketches and orienteering
Take part in Fair Trade product fairs
Build upon your teamwork skills
Student Testimonials
I chose Geography for GCSE and A-level as it is a very interesting and enjoyable subject. It has helped me develop my understanding of the world around us and how physical and human systems can affect our everyday life.
Geography is a fun, relevant and broad-based subject which will open up many options for you in the future. Many students don’t pick this subject due to the long writing assignments on case studies etc but with great teachers these topics are easily broke down and enjoyable to learn.
To ensure the subject is kept interesting and fun field-trip opportunities and hands on activities are offered to students to develop their understanding of the topics and the world around us.
Shanna, Year 13
My interest for geography started as a year 8 student. As a GCSE student, I grew to love the subject. My main interest was physical geography, learning about floods and volcanoes. Then my love for geography developed further during A Level Geography where you’ll learn about everything from plate tectonics to conflict and ethnic diversity.
Honestly my biggest struggle was how to answer the question, which let me down in exams. However, I’ll never forget the conversations I had with Mrs Andrews and Mr Curran who were nothing but encouraging. Both went out of their way to help and for that I am extremely grateful. They helped me achieve my dream of studying Geography at Queens.
Geography teaches you lifelong transferable skills, from essay writing to scientific reports and interpreting information.
Caitlin Rush, Past pupil studying Geography at QUB
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